Leisure set to transform Johor into Malaysia's richest state

The Malaysian state of Johor is set to emerge as Malaysia's richest state by 2025, if the current trend of development pace and investment inflows continues.

According to Affin Investment Bank Vice-President and Retail Research Head Nazri Khan, Iskandar Malaysia, one of the five economic corridors in Malaysia, is set to attract nearly RM100 billion (US$32 billion) total investment by 2025, much of it driven by investments in leisure.

Nazri explained "we will see Johor transform into an Orlando in Florida and become Asia's Theme Park Hub with the presence of at least four theme parks in the state.

"They include Legoland Malaysia which opened recently, and Puteri Harbour Family Entertainment Centre and Austin Heights Water Theme Park. All these parks will provide ample jobs to our youth."

The 2012/13 Economic Report issued by the Malaysian Finance Ministry on 28th September said job opportunities in Johor are expected to double when some projects come onstream in the next five years such as Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia Studios, MSC Cyberport City and Urban and Resort Wellness.

At the same time, Nazri said efforts to attract cash-rich Middle Eastern investors, who have the capital to invest, must be pursued to maintain the development momentum in Johor.

Johor is the southernmost state on the Malayan peninsula, located just north of Singapore.

For more information go to www.johortourism.com.my/