- Aims to achieve a specific funding of US$ 212 mil by 2030 in Medini
- Programme has garnered US$ 552 mil in opportunities, created 6, 500 jobs in Medini since 2016
Through two important Memoranda of Understanding ( MOUs ) with GBS Malaysia and iTrain Asia, Iskandar Investment Berhad ( IIB ) has expanded its partnership with Global Business Services ( GBS ) Iskandar@Medini. Additionally, it collaborates with Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation ( MDEC ) to enhance its GBS ecosystem in Medini, Iskandar Puteri.  ,
This program reinforces IIB’s devotion to place Medini as the state’s second net zero carbon CBD by 2030 focusing on modernization, innovation, and GBS, the company said, in a statement.  ,
It added that in line with this commitment, the firm aims to achieve a target investment of US$ 212 million ( RM1 billion ) by 2030 in Medini. According to the investment target, Medini’s position as Johor’s online and innovation hub will also be supported by the creation of at least 2,500 jobs in the modern economy sector.
Idzham Mohd Hashim, President/CEO of IIB, stated,” The GBS Iskandar programme has achieved US$ 552 million ( RM2.6 billion ) of investments and 6, 500 jobs in Medini since its inception in 2016. As we embark on the next chapter of the GBS Iskandar initiative, IIB reaffirms our commitment to fostering growth and innovation within Malaysia’s GBS sector” . ,
He added that Medini’s GBS Iskandar’s success is attributed to its strategic location, which serves as a gateway for multi-modal vehicles with smooth connection by property, air, and sea.  ,
Medini, which is 40 minutes from Singapore and is situated between two major seaports and three international airports, offers unmatched availability and administrative advantages, making it an ideal location for GBS companies to prosper. By leveraging on mix collaborations within the double helix framework of industry, academia, government and civil society, we are poised to help tailored solutions spanning incentives, proper initiatives, talent development, and government liaison efforts, ensuring the GBS companies thrive in Medini’s attractive landscape”, Idzham said.
By leveraging Medini’s proper place and friendly ecosystem, the collaboration between IIB and GBS Malaysia aims to establish the region’s top regional hub for GBS procedures. This partnership demonstrates our shared responsibility to positioning Malaysia at the vanguard of the world’s modern business.
Additionally, the partnership between IIB and iTrain Asia focuses on empowering and mentoring initiatives designed to help businesses in the GBS industry advance the benefit chain through AI, automation, and sustainability initiatives, ensuring the workforce is equipped with the most recent knowledge that is necessary for success in the modern economy.
In order to make Medini a top destination for high-value jobs and sustainable growth, this collaboration will foster an environment conducive to continuous learning and innovation in order to meet the changing needs of GBS companies.
The upcoming partnership with MDEC, which aims to encourage foreign direct investments for the GBS industry, is anticipated. This partnership, slated to be announced in Q3 2024, aims to target new companies seeking a strategic and well- supported environment for expansion.
Mahadhir Aziz, CEO of MDEC said,” Our partnership with IIB underscores MDEC’s steadfast commitment to driving digital transformation, fostering talent development, and boosting economic growth in the GBS sector. This sets the stage for Johor to become a key destination for global investments” . ,
He added that this collaboration is in line with Malaysia’s national strategic initiative to advance Malaysia’s digital infrastructure, provide comprehensive business support, and strengthen Malaysia’s position as Asean’s digital hub.
Chairman of GBS Malaysia, Anthony Raja Devadoss, emphasised,” The strategic partnership with IIB marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to grow the GBS industry in Malaysia. We are committed to unlocking Medini’s full potential and positioning Malaysia as a powerhouse in the global GBS landscape by leveraging strategic advantages and creating a dynamic ecosystem for growth and innovation.
In addition, due to its favorable environment for innovation and learning, Eric Ku, executive director of iTrain Asia, added that” Medini stands as the ideal location for talent development within the GBS sector.” With its strategic positioning as a hub for technology, innovation, and global business services, Medini offers a dynamic ecosystem that fosters collaboration and skill enhancement. It provides an unparalleled opportunity for individuals to upskill and reskill, preparing them to thrive in the digital economy, in combination with the robust support provided by initiatives like the GBS Iskandar.  ,  ,
We are appreciative of our partners and stakeholders for their unwavering support throughout this transformative journey, Idzham once more stated. Together, we are advancing our strategic goals for Medini and supporting the development of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone. Let us all reaffirm our commitment to making Medini the preferred gateway to Southeast Asia, in the interests of Johor and the country as we move forward.