Chandran calls for targeted marketing campaigns aimed at international businesses.
THE upcoming Johor Budget 2025 should outline key strategies aimed at fostering digital transformation and attracting investment for the state, especially if the state government plans to establish the region as a prominent digital hub.
Johor Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JICCI) president AN Chandran said there was a need for substantial investment in both digital and physical infrastructure.
He said enhanced connectivity and widespread availability of high-speed Internet across Johor should be introduced to facilitate growth in the tech sector.
“To attract local and foreign technology companies, the state should introduce incentives such as tax breaks and grants.
“Creating a favourable investment climate will encourage more businesses to establish operations in Johor,” he said.
Chandran stressed that it was also important to develop a skilled workforce.
Santharisegar says the government should focus on addressing the escalating cost of essential goods and services.
Collaboration with educational institutions was crucial for establishing training programmes focused on digital skills, ensuring a steady supply of talent for the burgeoning tech industry, he said.
“The establishment of innovation hubs and incubators to support startups and entrepreneurs will provide essential resources, mentorship and funding opportunities,” he noted.
Strengthening public-private partnerships was also important, as collaboration between government agencies and the private sector would streamline processes and enhance the overall business ecosystem, he said.
In promoting Johor on the global stage, Chandran urged for targeted marketing campaigns aimed at international businesses, showcasing the state’s strategic location and technological capabilities.
Meanwhile, JICCI vice-president R. Santharisegar said the government should focus on addressing the escalating cost of essential goods and services.
“There should be stronger enforcement mechanisms to combat price hikes, with more consumable goods placed under price control.
“There is also the tendency of suppliers exploiting wage increases among civil servants, which were recently announced.
“This pattern of price inflation must be mitigated through effective regulatory measures, ensuring that consumers are not unduly burdened,” he said.
He highlighted that fostering local entrepreneurship was also a crucial strategy for economic growth.
“There should be increased government grants to support Malaysian youths, particularly in Johor, to launch their own businesses.
“This initiative aims to stimulate local economic development and reduce reliance on foreign enterprises, empowering residents and contributing to a more self-sustaining economy,” he said.
