IIBD To Transform Johor Bahru Into World-class Business Hub

JOHOR BAHRU, June 13 (Bernama) -- The implementation of the Ibrahim International Business District (IIBD) is set to transform Johor Bahru city centre into a world-class business hub, said Johor state housing and local government committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor.

He said the strategic initiative is not merely a physical development plan, but a comprehensive policy document encompassing economic, social, environmental and mobility aspects, aligned with sustainable development principles championed by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi through the MAJU JOHOR agenda.

According to Mohd Jafni, the initiative focuses on urban regeneration through active participation of the private sector and local communities, in line with the Johor-Singapore Economic Zone (JSEZ) spirit that drives cross-border connectivity and investment, adopting the Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) model.

"Alhamdulillah, today I received a full briefing on the latest progress of the IIBD implementation, a strategic initiative by the Johor State Government that will transform Johor Bahru city centre into a world-class business hub.

"...with a target to increase economic value from RM208 million in 2023 to RM21 billion by 2040, the IIBD plan will feature several new development zones including an innovation hub, heritage areas, shopping precincts, urban parks and an integrated public transport infrastructure," he said in a Facebook post today.

Mohd Jafni said IIBD also aims to raise job density from 9,300 to 34,000 employment opportunities, along with a gradual increase in the urban population to create a vibrant, friendly and safe community.

"In addition, green and wellbeing elements are prioritised through the 'Greening and Cooling the City' project, which includes the development of urban parks, pedestrian walkways, bicycle lanes and eco-friendly technologies such as floating wetlands to improve water quality and urban landscapes.

"From a safety perspective, the project will introduce improved urban lighting systems, secure back lanes and family-friendly community spaces to enhance the sense of security among city residents," he said.

Elaborating further, Mohd Jafni said the project also targets smart mobility through the construction of a medium-scale public transport system, integrated parking and non-motorised route networks, supporting the state’s ambition towards a smart, low-carbon city.

"I am committed to ensuring that this initiative is not merely a paper plan but becomes a reality that delivers direct benefits to the people, particularly the residents of Johor Bahru and surrounding areas.

"In shaa Allah, we will continue to work hand in hand to ensure that every development is inclusive, high-impact and aligned with the aspirations of Johoreans for a more sustainable, productive and competitive future city," he said.

The same post also stated that implementation will be led by IIBD (Johor) Sdn Bhd, in collaboration with technical agencies and local authorities, under the close supervision of the IIBD Steering Committee and Working Committee, which are responsible for coordinating technical operations on the ground.

The IIBD Steering Committee is chaired by the Mayor of Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) and the Johor Deputy State Secretary (Development), while Mohd Jafni serves as advisor to ensure the strategic direction remains consistent with state government policy.

-- BERNAMA