By Mohd Khairul Ramli
The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) holds significant promise as an engine of regional economic powerhouse in the region. Positioned as Southeast Asia’s answer to the Shenzhen-Hong Kong partnership, the JS-SEZ aspires to bridge Malaysia’s industrial ambitions and new source of growth with Singapore’s financial and logistical expertise. However, a closer analysis reveals critical challenges that must be addressed to ensure its success. These issues span the project’s phased execution model, resource management, environmental concerns, political realities, and the disparity in benefits distribution between Malaysia and Singapore.