Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) strongly supports the proposed Elevated Automated Transit Flow System (ART) for Johor Bahru city centre. This initiative aligns with IIB’s Net Zero CBD (central business district) goals by 2030 as well as transforming Medini, Iskandar Puteri into a low-carbon city by 2050.
The Rapid Transit System Link (RTS) and the ART system are expected to reduce traffic and minimize travel times in certain specific locations, which are essential to Johor’s economic development. Consequently, improving the flow of people and goods for businesses.
“IIB prioritises sustainability efforts within Iskandar Puteri via a strategic sustainable framework. In June 2023, we partnered with industry leaders to establish charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) and encourage EV adoption. The recently launched cross-border electric public buses operating from the Mall of Medini further reduces reliance on personal vehicles and promotes environmentally friendly travel,” said Dato’ Idzham Mohd Hashim, President/Chief Executive Officer of IIB.
In actuality, one of IIB’s primary partners in sustainable transportation, Handal Indah, is in charge of operating the cross-border electric public buses. One of the five main elements of the IIB’s Net Zero Carbon CBD framework is sustainable mobility. The last four pillars are waste management, water management, energy management, and green building materials.
The federal government and the state of Johor are still leading the way in growth with their sustainability initiatives. Johor’s goal of installing 1,100 electric vehicle charging stations by 2025 may be partially attributed to the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and the Singapore Green Plan 2030.
“We are looking forward to a more seamless travel experience once the JS-SEZ cross-border cooperation is detailed out. In addition, the Rapid Transit System (RTS) and High Speed Rail (HSR) are expected to contribute greatly to a more efficient connectivity between Malaysia and Singapore. Organic socio-economic flow and uplift between these two countries would be more pronounced once these integrated transit systems are in place, unlocking a myriad of commercial multiplier effects,” said Dato’ Idzham.
The JS-SEZ should also be a key factor in accelerating the net zero carbon and low carbon city status with rising demand from manufacturing-related companies of both countries. Singapore’s decarbonisation push creates opportunities for renewable energy investments within Johor. This focus on green energy positions Iskandar Puteri as an attractive location for eco-conscious businesses.
IIB’s use of green building materials and energy-efficient technology throughout Iskandar Puteri is part of the company’s net zero carbon framework.
“We are in the process of implementing robust waste management systems, water conservation strategies, and sustainable water management practices. These initiatives contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment for the residents of Iskandar Puteri,” he continued.
IIB remains steadfast in its commitment to working alongside all stakeholders to fulfil the vision of a prosperous and sustainable future for Johor.
“We will continue our efforts in fostering collaborations to create a thriving economic hub at Iskandar Puteri. Our socio-economic objective is intended to benefit all stakeholders, especially the population of Iskandar Puteri where renewable energy is central to our sustainable strategy,” said Dato’ Idzham.
