Singapore, Malaysia renew commitment to implement JS-SEZ frameworks

[SINGAPORE] Singapore and Malaysia on Tuesday (Nov 25) reaffirmed their commitment to advancing efforts related to the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), at the 17th Malaysia-Singapore Joint Ministerial Committee for Iskandar Malaysia (JMCIM) meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Both sides agreed to “refresh and repurpose” the JMCIM into the Johor–Singapore Cooperation Ministerial Committee (JSCMC). This will serve as an “enhanced ministerial platform” to provide strategic direction, strengthen bilateral coordination and oversee the implementation of priority initiatives under the JS-SEZ.

“This transition reflects the deepening and broadening scope of bilateral cooperation, particularly in ensuring JS-SEZ comprehensiveness to compete for global investments,” a joint statement said.

The two parties also concurred on setting up working groups to discuss matters related to JS-SEZ, transportation and other areas in the future.

The updated terms of reference will be further refined and tabled at the inaugural meeting of the JSCMC, which has been proposed to be held in the second half of 2026.

Singapore and Malaysia agreed to ensure that the institutional, regulatory and operational frameworks required for the JS-SEZ are effectively put in place.

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The session was co-chaired by Malaysia’s Minister of Economy Amir Hamzah Azizan, and Singapore’s Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat.

Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry and Culture, Community and Youth Low Yen Ling; Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment and Defence Zaqy Mohamad; and the Chief Minister of Johor Onn Hafiz Ghazi were at the meeting as well.

Malaysia and Singapore noted the ongoing progress towards the ratification of the JS-SEZ agreement, including the required domestic processes on each side.