Johor growth plan must link northern, central districts to statewide prosperity
Johor’s growth plan must integrate northern and central districts such as Muar, Tangkak, Segamat, Batu Pahat and Kluang to convert southern gains into statewide prosperity, according to a Research for Social Advancement…
Source: Research for Social Advancement · July 28, 2026 at 10:58 PM · AI-assisted report
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JOHOR, 29 JULY 2026 —
Johor Growth Plan Urged to Link Northern, Central Districts for Statewide Prosperity
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KUALA LUMPUR — Johor’s economic growth must extend beyond the southern region to include northern and central districts such as Muar, Tangkak, Segamat, Batu Pahat and Kluang, a report by Research for Social Advancement (REFSA) said. The think tank highlighted that while initiatives like the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), RTS Link, Iskandar Malaysia, and industrial expansions have bolstered Johor’s southern economy, balanced development across the state remains critical.
The report noted that northern and central Johor contribute through manufacturing, agriculture, furniture, SMEs, logistics, tourism, and food production. However, these areas require stronger integration with high-value investments, infrastructure, supply chains, and public services to unlock their full potential. REFSA urged political parties contesting in the upcoming Johor state election to prioritize substantive policies for these regions, emphasizing that statewide growth should complement, not compete with, southern development.
The think tank also clarified that the principle of balanced statewide growth was not new, citing the Johor People’s Economic Agenda 2030 (PPMJ 2030), introduced under former Menteri Besar Hasni Mohammad. PPMJ 2030 had already outlined region-based development, rural economic upgrading, and reduced outward migration as key priorities. Maju Johor 2030, the current development plan, should be viewed as a consolidation of these earlier strategies rather than a standalone initiative.
Looking ahead, the report stressed the need for equitable development—ensuring sufficient jobs, infrastructure, and economic opportunities across Johor to enable residents to thrive within their communities.
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