Kuala lumpur: All parties, especially entrepreneurs and traders, are urged to enhance their skills and equip themselves with new competencies to ensure they can compete at the global level, thus seizing the opportunities created through the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has emphasized the importance of upskilling and reskilling to ensure that the people of Johor can compete globally and keep pace with developed nations. He highlighted the vast opportunities the JS-SEZ presents, covering an area of 3,500 square kilometres, which is four times larger than Singapore. The zone will focus on sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, retail, and tourism.

"Through the openings created by this JS-SEZ, there will be lots of opportunities for jobs and for entrepreneurs," Datuk Onn Hafiz stated. He pointed out that many big brands are expected to establish a presence in Johor, providing a platform for local entrepreneurs to progress. Opportunities and incentives will be offered through the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

Speaking at the launch of the Johor Business Summit and Expo 2025 (JBSE 2025) at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre, Onn Hafiz emphasized the need for entrepreneurs and traders to maintain high standards of service quality to retain foreign investors' confidence. He stressed that while the government can provide facilities and incentives, entrepreneurs must actively enhance their capabilities and resilience.

He warned that presenting sub-standard entrepreneurs to investors could lead to complaints and hinder future business opportunities. "There is no such thing as a free meal," he said, underscoring the necessity for entrepreneurs to improve their capabilities and service quality to compete on the global stage.

The two-day JBSE 2025, which commenced today, includes a forum session that brings together industry experts, policymakers, and business leaders to discuss the direction and growth of Johor's business sector. The exhibition features 80 booths showcasing Johor-based business suppliers, machinery, raw materials, packaging, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), all promoting the 'Meh Sapot Lokal' campaign.