Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB), the master developer of Iskandar Puteri of Johor in Malaysia, via River Retreat Sdn Bhd, has entered into a strategic partnership with TM-Nxera, a joint venture of Telekom Malaysia (TM) and Singapore Telecommunications Limited (Singtel), to empower the digital economy and build a sustainable future for the region.
IIB said in a statement on Wednesday that the strategic partnership with TM-Nxera for the establishment of state-of-the-art sustainable, hyper-connected and artificial intelligence (AI) ready digital infrastructure in Iskandar Puteri marks a significant milestone in its journey towards the aspiration of becoming the Digital and Innovation Hub for Johor.
The proposed project will entail an approximate RM9bil investment by the parties to develop the digital infrastructure for Iskandar Puteri.
“The decision by TM-Nxera to establish their state-of-the-art sustainable and AI ready digital infrastructure in Iskandar Puteri is a major achievement for our community,
“It goes beyond mere infrastructure development; it’s about nurturing innovation and fostering growth within our region,” said Idzham Mohd Hashim, President/Chief Executive Officer of IIB.
Bill Chang, Chief Executive Officer of Nxera and Singtel’s Digital InfraCo unit, said they are excited to partner with IIB to develop this critical digital infrastructure in Iskandar Puteri.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our vision to empower digital economies and communities across the region, and we are confident that it will unlock immense potential for businesses in Johor and Singapore,” he added.
Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, Group Chief Executive Officer of TM, said that this strategic move underscores the firm’s commitment to advancing technology and fostering innovation in Malaysia.
“Johor is a key destination for TM’s digital infrastructure expansion supported by our robust domestic and international connectivity,
“The partnership is a pivotal step in our mission to position Malaysia as a regional digital hub and towards our vision of becoming a Digital Powerhouse by 2030,” he added.
According to the statement, the collaboration aligns with Malaysia’s national agendas, including the MyDIGITAL Blueprint, which emphasizes the importance of digital infrastructure in driving a digitally enabled government and economy.
It also supports the nation’s goal of attracting RM70 billion in investments by 2025, as outlined in the MyDIGITAL Blueprint and National Industrial Master Plan 2030.
The new digital infrastructure will create numerous benefits for Iskandar Puteri, unlocking opportunities and creating value in several ways.
It will increase investment opportunities by attracting new technology companies and stimulating tech-based investments.
Additionally, it will upskill the workforce by providing opportunities for local talent to develop digital skills.
The infrastructure will be built with a focus on sustainability, aligning with IIB’s vision for a Net Zero Carbon central business district (CBD) in Medini.
This development will enhance the business ecosystem by facilitating the growth of various technology-driven industries within Iskandar Puteri.
Furthermore, it will increase subsea connectivity between Johor and Singapore, supporting the development of the digital economies in both regions.
With a shared commitment for progress and prosperity in the region, the strategic partnership strengthens the dynamic relationship between Johor and Singapore, underscoring initiatives that pave the way for a brighter future driven by innovation and economic growth.
Both parties are confident in the partnership’s ability to not only bolster Iskandar Puteri’s digital infrastructure but also unlock exciting potential for innovations and opportunities.
Together, they aim to transform Iskandar Puteri into the preferred gateway to Southeast Asia and a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and economic prosperity, said the statement.
IIB is a key player in Iskandar Malaysia’s transformation into a regional metropolis of international standing.
Incorporated in November 2006, the firm is tasked to ensure that Iskandar Malaysia continues its successful trajectory into an attractive investment destination in Southeast Asia and a vibrant, liveable region of Malaysia via catalytic projects.
The firm focuses on the development of Iskandar Puteri in the education, technology, environmental, social, and governance (ESG), tourism, entertainment, and health and wellness sectors.
Its impactful accomplishments include the successful joint ventures and investment partnerships in EduCity, LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort, Iskandar Puteri, Medini and other infrastructure projects under the 9th Malaysia Plan in Iskandar Malaysia.
TM, Singtel’s Nxera team up to develop next-generation data centers in Malaysia