The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is a landmark bilateral initiative launched in January 2025 by Malaysia and Singapore to boost cross-border economic integration, attract investments, and support sustainable development. As the only cross-national SEZ in ASEAN, the JS-SEZ offers a unique package of benefits, including tax and duty exemptions, streamlined customs processes, and mobility incentives for businesses and talent. However, since its launch, not much is known about the opportunities available for companies looking to tap into the JS-SEZ. Previous iterations of cross-border investment schemes in ASEAN have included discussions about expedited visas for investors, lower tax rates for skilled workers, and streamlined procedures.The US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) is organizing a deep dive into the Johor-Singapore SEZ, working with United Overseas Bank (UOB) to facilitate two days of meetings in Singapore and Johor. This will also include a site visit to Johor for companies to see the developments in Malaysia. Government meetings planned include Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), the Johor State Government, Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA), and the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre - Johor (IMFC-J).

The US-ASEAN Business Council is registering senior-level executives for the 2025 Malaysia Business Mission. This year's mission holds great significance as Malaysia holds the 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship this year. The importance of the U.S.-Malaysia economic relationship is even more significant as both countries navigate global and geopolitical challenges. The 2025 Malaysia Business Mission will provide the delegation with unique opportunities for exclusive in-person dialogues with the Anwar Ibrahim administration as well as the East Malaysian governments, with the objectives to strengthen the U.S-Malaysia business relationship, discuss new opportunities, and navigate risks associated with the current global policy landscape. MISSION THEMES The Mission will bring three overarching messages to frame discussions and support our advocacy activities throughout the year: 1. Public-Private partnership on the digital, supply chain and renewable energy efforts: USABC members are taking a more active role to help balance Malaysia’s digital economy, industrial development, and sustainability efforts, enhancing its position in global and regional supply chains. 2. Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship: Leveraging Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship to support USABC members regional advocacy priorities (i.e., connectivity, sustainability, policy harmonization, etc.) related to the ongoing development of the ASEAN Economic Community. 3. Malaysia’s domestic business environment for economic and trade resilience: USABC members reaffirm commitment to push forward measures that both support a more resilient economy and a more competitive business environment for growth in various priority sectors.

In the first half of the call, our guest speaker, Mr. Syed Farizal Aminy Bin Syed Mohamed, CDA at the Embassy of Malaysia in Washington, D.C., will brief members on recent developments and new strategies in Malaysia's international positioning and trade and investment landscape. We may also expect to hear the CDA speak about what has come out of Malaysian delegates' visits to Washinton in the context of the recent World Bank and IMF Meetings. The second half of the call will cover updates on the 2025 Malaysia Business Mission planning, including updates on confirmed meetings, logistics, and other important reminders including submission of talking points.