Johor-Singapore cooperation: Boom, bane or both?
The economic benefits of the collaboration will take time to be felt; and in the near term, individuals and businesses will be economically discomfited
Published Wed, Jul 2, 2025 · 07:00 AM
Johor-Singapore SEZ
- The closer linkage between Johor and Singapore may offer opportunities, but it also presents formidable competition to the city-state – at least in the short term. PHOTO: BT FILE
CORPORATE Singapore has long moaned about high real estate costs and the lack of affordable labour – problems that the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is expected to tackle.
On Jan 6, Singapore and Malaysia inked a formal agreement to establish the JS-SEZ to attract businesses in every thing ranging from manufacturing, to health and to digital. With a land area four times that of our tiny island-state, the JS-SEZ opens up the possibility for Singapore companies to set up in Johor Bahru.
In May, a convenient light rail transit system connecting Singapore and JB was announced. Slated for launch end-2026, the JB-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link will be able to serve up to 10,000 commuters during peak periods for every hour and in each direction, with a journey time of about five minutes. This should significantly reduce congestion along the Causeway and reduce travel times between JB and Singapore.
While lowering costs and increasing efficiency should be golden words to corporate leaders’ ears, every conversation I have had with business owners or CEOs have so far started with a grimace and ended with a groan.
Clearly, the JB-Singapore story is more than cost reduction and transport efficiency.
Competition with Singapore
The closer linkage may offer opportunities, but it also presents formidable competition to Singapore – at least in the short term.
RM1 is currently worth 30 Singapore cents. For Singaporeans, the favourable exchange rate means that prices are lower in Malaysia. Already, many are making day trips to JB to stock up on diapers, enjoy cheap meals and get pampered in a spa.
And they are there not just for basic necessities. They are also going to Malaysia for health check-ups and simple medical treatments. Pharmaceuticals, too, are cheaper across the Causeway.
Business owners in Singapore are worried that this will hollow out local demand in supermarkets, food and beverage (F&B) outlets and other specialised services.