Iskandar wants FDI from high-tech companies

Iskandar, a special economic zone in South Malaysia situated very close to Singapore, is hoping to collaborate more closely with foreign technology companies, said Dato' Benjamin Haji Hasbie, Federal Commissioner, Iskandar Regional Development Authority during the launch of Smiths Detection's first Asia Pacific manufacturing facility in Nusajaya, Iskandar. 

"We would like to see more foreign direct investment (FDI) from high end technologies. Iskandar, Malaysia is also looking at technology transfer," said Dato' Benjamin at a press briefing, listing infrastructure advancement and manpower development as other benefits of collaboration.
Dato' Benjamin disclosed that 64% of investments are from local entities, and 36% from foreigners, mainly MNCs.

"While current key economic activities here are mainly focused on mixed property development and logistics, Nusajaya would also be the hub for creative arts and entertainment, medical facilities, educational institutions, tourism, biotechnology and hi-tech manufacturing," he said in a speech prior to officially declaring the Iskandar-based Smiths Detection facility open. 

Philip Bowman, Chief Executive, Smiths Group (L) and Dato' Benjamin Haji Hasbie, Federal Commissioner, Iskandar Regional Development Authority (R),
officiating the launch of Smiths Detection (M) Sdn Bhd. Source: Smiths Detection.

Iskandar is also the seat of power for the Johor state government.