New Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre in Johor aims to boost economic growth and attract more investors to the state

This initiative is part of the broader Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, which is anticipated to be a "major driver of regional and national development".

Malaysia has established its first Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre (IMFC) outside of Kuala Lumpur, in Johor. 

Shared in a press release by Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), the strategic expansion is said to represent a forward-thinking approach aimed at boosting economic growth and attracting more investors through the utilisation of the state's distinctive value propositions and potential.

This initiative is part of the broader Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) initiative, which aims to foster stronger business connections and improved connectivity between Malaysia and Singapore. According to MITI, the IMFC integration into this agenda highlights its role in fostering a business-friendly environment, crucial for mutual growth.

MITI added that the JS-SEZ is anticipated to be a major driver of regional and national development, demonstrating the impact of cross-border economic zones on prosperity.

Commenting on this, YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry said: "This move is intended to replicate the streamlining of administrative investment procedures to remove investors' pain points and enhance their journey of investing in Malaysia.

"Coupled with Johor's strategic location and natural resources, we envisage IMFC Johor to further bolster the state's competitiveness, and in turn, Malaysia's appeal as a preferred investment destination on the global stage."

He added: "In the bigger scheme of things, we perceive IMFC as a key investment enabler that also supports the MADANI Economy Framework and the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, contributing to sustainable growth initiatives, while generating high-value employment opportunities across Malaysia."

Building upon the achievements of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)'s Project Implementation and Facilitation Office and the existing IMFC, the Johor IMFC will also deliver consultation and advisory services specifically tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities faced in Johor, hence "creating an environment that enables the state to fully realize its potential."

MITI said it will, together with MIDA, work closely with the Johor state government to cultivate a dynamic, competitive, and innovative economic environment that will support Malaysian businesses as well as job opportunities for the people.

Photo: Tengku Zafrul's Facebook