Special Economic Zones and Special Financial Zones are broadly used by many international companies including startups and small and medium enterprises as they offer unbeatable conditions for business development and expansion. Today, we look at the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS SEZ). By the way, the most comprehensive overview of today’s free zones in the world is set up by The Adrionople Group and can be found here:
Back in January 2024 Malaysia and Singapore signed MOU in regards of the development of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone. Since that time, different international companies have taken advantage of this zone located at the very Southern part of the Malay peninsula, right at the border to Singapore. Among them we can find ResMed, FedEx, Archisen or Armstrong Industrial Corporation.
Benefits of JS SEZ
The proximity to the new Johor cargo seaport, to the Singapore border and access to a very well educated and English-speaking local talents and capabilities are one of the key points to settle in the JS SEZ. Logistic companies, manufacturers, data center operators but also newcomers and startups benefit equally well from the conditions in the JS SEZ.
Just from the Singapore side, there are over 300 enquiries from different companies wishing to explore opportunities within JS SEZ. Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone is not only about the cost advantages, margins or taxes. It can be used as a perfect springboard from Malaysia to the neighbor countries like Thailand, Vietnam, to the whole ASEAN region and for further internationalization.
Special MM2H option
But the business opportunities are not the only attraction of the JS SEZ. Malaysia has setup a special option for its MM2H – Malaysia My 2nd Home program. Forest City located within the JS SEZ is a new development initially targeting around 700.000 inhabitants and investors from all over the world. An additional kick to its development is provided by the special conditions of MM2H.
Fixed deposit requirements for the application of MM2H within Forest City are just a fraction of the standard ones. While for the cheapest standard MM2H version (Silver) you need to deposit 150.000 USD and the Silver MM2H option would be valid for 5 years only, the special MM2H option requires a deposit of 32.000 USD (if you are above 55 years) or 65.000 USD (if you are younger). The special MM2H option is valid for 10 years instead of 5 years. Also the government renewal fees are reduced from 1500 MYR (Silver option) down to 300 MYR only (special MM2H option).
The real estate purchases are allowed (and to be done) only within Forest City and only directly from the developer (no second-hand property purchases).
All other conditions are identical to the MM2H Silver option.
Important to keep in mind, however, that only the MM2H Platin version allows to do business in Malaysia, to work in Malaysia or to invest in the country.
MM2H vs. Philippines FIV
MM2H in its versions Silver, Gold or Special Economic Zones can be a perfect option for retirees or persons having businesses outside of Malaysia (for example, in Singapore). If you intend to live and to invest or to do business in the country of your residency, Philippines FIV could be a better option to consider. Compared to MM2H, FIV is faster and requires just a fraction of the investment compared to MM2H Platin version, but offers remarkably better conditions including a straight-forward path to the second citizenship.
In any case, Singabiz® and partners of Singabiz® Network can equally assist you with all the activities mentioned:
- Incorporations in Malaysia
- Incorporations in Singapore
- Applications for different options of MM2H and
- Applications for Philippines FIV
You have just one single point of contact and get consultations and step-by-step assistance in all required matters. Do not hesitate to contact us and one of Singabiz® Representatives will be glad to help you further.
