Johor Bahru:The Bumiputera Agenda Steering Unit (TERAJU) has been called upon to enhance its support for Bumiputera companies in Johor, aiming to strengthen their business capabilities and enable them to seize emerging economic opportunities, particularly in light of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) development.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir emphasized the need for TERAJU's support to go beyond financing to include guidance and initiatives that can help Bumiputera companies grow and potentially penetrate the stock market. He highlighted the importance of initiatives such as the 'queen bee' model in attracting strategic investments while ensuring local entrepreneurs, including Bumiputeras, play a significant role in supply chains and services.

Minister Akmal further elaborated on discussions from the recent Johor-Singapore Cooperation Ministerial Committee (JSCMC) meeting, which he co-chaired with Singapore National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation to realize the strategic potential of the JS-SEZ, with plans for the master plan launch at the upcoming Leaders' Retreat. The Malaysian government also discussed investment potentials like the Nexus Sedenak industrial area, expected to attract RM12 billion in investments and create job opportunities.

Johor's economic growth has shown remarkable progress, recording an eight percent increase last year, surpassing the national average. The Bumiputera Economic Transformation Plan 2035 (PuTERA35) aims to facilitate the growth of Bumiputera entrepreneurs from small enterprises to medium-sized companies, eventually becoming leaders in their fields. Minister Akmal reiterated the vast potential in Johor and expressed the government's hope for TERAJU to intensify its efforts in supporting Bumiputera companies, not only through funding but also by providing the necessary guidance to help them scale their business potential.