Johor is intensifying its efforts to position itself as a leading investment destination, following productive discussions with four prominent Japanese corporations at the Johor Week event during Expo Osaka 2025. These companies, representing diverse high-value industries, demonstrated significant interest in expanding their operations within the state, particularly focusing on the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone. The meetings, led by state officials and investment agencies, underscore Johor’s strategic appeal to international investors seeking access to ASEAN markets.
The four Japanese firms involved—IL Holdings, Morishita Jintan, Nissei, and Fuji Oil—operate in sectors including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, precision manufacturing, and food and chemical production. Their engagement reflects a broader trend of Japanese investment interest in Johor, further highlighted by a collaborative investment forum with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation that attracted sixty participating companies. Johor’s established infrastructure, political stability, and investor-friendly policies were cited as key factors driving this international confidence.
State officials emphasized that these discussions are part of a long-standing economic relationship between Johor and Japan, which brings advanced technology, supply chain development, and industrial expertise to the region. The Malaysian Investment Development Authority’s Osaka office will confirm the finalized investment values following the expo’s conclusion. These investments are anticipated to generate high-value employment, facilitate technology transfer, and support the state’s Maju Johor 2030 development agenda and the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone initiative.
The Maju Johor 2030 blueprint aims to establish Johor as a regional center for investment, innovation, and sustainable growth, balancing economic advancement with environmental considerations. Johor Week at Expo Osaka served as a platform to showcase the state’s economic potential and strengthen global partnerships. By mid-2025, Johor had already secured over RM56 billion in investments, creating more than 8,000 jobs, while initiatives like the Forest City Special Financial Zone enhance its role as a financial gateway in Southeast Asia.
Looking ahead, Johor continues to develop the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone to simplify cross-border trade, improve mobility, and offer incentives for green and digital investments. Cooperation with Japan is also expanding into areas such as semiconductors, cybersecurity, and renewable energy. These efforts collectively reinforce Johor’s growing reputation as a strategic and reliable hub for international business within the ASEAN region.