ISKANDAR PUTERI: Forest City has seen increased interest from both local and international investors after being designated a Special Financial Zone (SFZ) by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on August 25, 2023. The area has also been officially included in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), boosting its appeal.

Syarul Izam Sarifudin, Deputy President of Country Garden Pacificview, noted that 11 companies have shown interest in operating within Forest City’s SFZ. He is optimistic that 2025 will bring further economic growth to the area, which was also designated a Tax-Free Zone in November 2023.

Forest City’s SFZ status, along with its duty-free status and JS-SEZ inclusion, positions the area as a key economic driver for Johor and Malaysia. The project developer is working closely with state and federal governments to ensure smooth implementation.

To engage investors, Forest City has held seminars and launched pre-bookings for its commercial units. The area has attracted interest from financial institutions, particularly after a Johor delegation’s visit to Dubai’s International Financial Centre (DIFC). This visit sparked interest in AI investments within the SFZ.

The development also focuses on improving infrastructure and transportation. Forest City has partnered with Causeway Link to introduce new bus services, and plans to upgrade cycle lanes and integrate public transport with Johor Baru’s system.

With its strategic location, incentives, and global vision, Forest City is becoming a key hub for investment and economic growth in the ASEAN region.