Ask an Expert: Setting up in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ) edition

In this edition of Ask an Expert, Ms. Sahattaya Thongpreecha (Khun May), Country President of NS BlueScope Malaysia, answers your questions on setting up in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ):

Q: What are your top tips for setting up in the JSSEZ? Where can I find more information on the JSSEZ?

A: To succeed in JSSEZ, focus on early collaboration with investors, developers, and contractors. Align on project goals and compliance from the start.

Engaging partners who understand the local context, whether it's navigating building codes, managing supply chains, or meeting green certification standards—can help de-risk projects and ensure successful outcomes. Choosing the right building envelope solutions is also key to long-term success. Selecting the right building envelope solutions, particularly for roofing and walling, is crucial for operational efficiency and resilience.

By building a network of trusted collaborators who bring both local insight and global standards to the table, Australian businesses can successfully navigate the challenges and maximize the benefits of establishing a presence in JSSEZ.

For more information about JSSEZ, visit IRDA (Iskandar Regional Development Authority) or Invest Johor, which provide updates and guidance on JSSEZ developments.

Q: How will the JSSEZ benefit Australian businesses / businesses currently in Singapore?

A: For Australian businesses already operating in Singapore—or looking to enter the region—the JSSEZ offers a complementary platform to expand operations more cost-effectively. It allows companies to maintain strategic proximity to Singapore’s financial and commercial ecosystem, while leveraging Johor’s lower-cost base for production, warehousing, or regional distribution. 

The zone’s focus on improving cross-border trade, regulatory efficiency, and sector-specific incentives can help businesses optimize their footprint, diversify risk, and access new growth opportunities across both markets.

Q: What are the key considerations when designing and constructing facilities in JSSEZ?

A: When setting up in JSSEZ, understanding local building regulations is crucial. Facilities should be designed to meet operational needs and sustainability goals.

One often overlooked but critical aspect is the building envelope - especially roofing and wall systems. In Malaysia’s hot and humid tropical climate, it is vital that these systems are engineered to provide effective thermal insulation and weather protection. A well-designed envelope helps shield operations from heat stress and ensures watertightness, prevent disruptions caused by heavy rainfall or humidity-related issues.

BlueScope’s steel solutions made with our trusted coated steel products such as COLORBOND® and ZINCALUME®, offer durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal, making them ideal for various types of developments in JSSEZ. With our experience in similar sectors and build projects in this region, we are more than happy to be part of the synergy to support Australian businesses to start their footprint in JSSEZ.

Engaging experienced partners early can help optimize design for compliance and sustainability, ensuring your facility is resilient and future-ready.

 

Q: What are the advantages of having a facility in the JSSEZ?

A: Setting up a facility in the JSSEZ offers several practical advantages. The zone provides access to affordable land and operational costs in Johor, while maintaining close proximity to Singapore’s global connectivity and infrastructure. This makes it ideal for businesses looking to establish manufacturing, logistics, or support operations in Southeast Asia. The JSSEZ is also designed to streamline cross-border processes and attract investment in high-growth sectors such as advanced manufacturing and green technology. For Australian businesses, it it’s a strategic launchpad for regional growth.

Q: When setting up in the JSSEZ, who should Australian business collaborate with (and how) to optimize value in the project?

A: To optimise value, Australian businesses should treat collaboration with investors, developers, and contractors as strategic partnerships. Early alignment on goals, timelines, and compliance is key—especially in a dynamic zone like JSSEZ.

Engage partners who understand local regulations, supply chains, and sustainability standards like GBI. This helps de-risk the project and ensures timely, cost-effective delivery.

From a construction perspective, choose partners who offer not just materials, but also technical support and a proven track record in similar sectors. Success in JSSEZ depends on building a trusted network that blends local insight with global standards.

Q: What are the cultural and regulatory similarities and differences that an Australian business should take note of when doing business in Malaysia?

A: Malaysia and Australia share several cultural and regulatory similarities that make it easier for Australian businesses to operate in Malaysia. Both countries have a strong emphasis on quality standards and compliance, which aligns well with BlueScope’s values. Additionally, the cultural affinity between the two nations fosters a collaborative business environment, facilitating smoother operations and partnerships.

However, businesses should be mindful of differences in regulatory timelines, approval processes, and communication styles. Building strong local relationships and understanding cultural nuances can go a long way in ensuring smooth operations.

Ask an Expert is a monthly series in which we call on subject experts within the AustCham Singapore community to answer questions that we may have on a specific topic. The strength of our community is in the diverse expertise within our membership, and we want to use this initiative to tap on the knowledge of our members to enrich the community as a whole.

Our expert for this month is Ms. Sahattaya Thongpreecha (Khun May), Country President of NS BlueScope Malaysia, Australian steel producer and global leader in the built environment sector. BlueScope has been instrumental in shaping the development landscape in Malaysia and beyond. Their solutions have significantly contributed to the development landscape, with millions of square meters of cladding supplied, supported by the advanced technology transferred from Australia to Malaysia.

Ms. Sahattaya Thongpreecha is the Country President of NS BlueScope Malaysia and Singapore. With over 28 years of leadership experience in the construction materials industry, she is recognised for driving strategic growth, operational excellence, and building resilient organizations.

Connect with Khun May on LinkedIn, and find out more about NS BlueScope.