JOHOR BARU: Effective policy implementation, strategic industrial development, and investment in education and skills training will help speed up the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone’s (JS-SEZ) crucial role in reducing youth unemployment, say youth groups.
Johor Youth Council president Mohammad Alif A. Rahim said the success of the JS-SEZ in reducing youth unemployment will depend on these factors.
“If these elements align, experts anticipate a positive shift in employment opportunities for young Malaysians in the coming years,” he said.
He added that the JS-SEZ was introduced to reduce youth unemployment by fostering industrial growth and offering well-paying jobs.
“The economic zone will encourage various industries to expand, providing employment opportunities for young people, with competitive salaries.
“It will also promote entrepreneurship, particularly in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which can further stimulate other industries and job creation,” he said.
To maximise the benefits of the JS-SEZ, Mohammad Alif emphasised the importance of reskilling and upskilling initiatives for workers in various industries to ensure they remain competitive.
He also pointed out that offering higher wages is essential to discourage youths from seeking employment in Singapore.
“Additionally, providing training programmes, financial aid, and infrastructure will support new business ventures and encourage entrepreneurship in the region.
Young Malaysians Movement Johor president Brevia Pan Woon Shien said she is optimistic about the JS-SEZ’s impact, predicting it will attract businesses and foreign investments, generating more job opportunities in Johor.
Given Johor’s geographical proximity to Singapore, the economic zone is expected to complement Singapore’s economy, fostering collaboration in cross-border employment and industrial development, she said.
Singapore’s limited land and rising costs make it difficult to accommodate a large number of middle- and lower-income workers, potentially prompting Singaporean companies to relocate to Johor.
“This could lead to increased job opportunities and higher wages for Malaysian youths,” she said when contacted on Thursday.
To ensure young people benefit from the JS-SEZ, Pan stressed the importance of providing relevant skills training and education.
She urged the government and businesses to collaborate with universities and vocational training institutions to equip youths with the necessary professional skills.
“Government policies should encourage companies to prioritise hiring local youth.
“Salary remains a major concern, so the government must implement policies that ensure fair wages, merit-based employment, and competitive starting salaries within the economic zone.
“Only then can we truly motivate youths to contribute to its development,” she added.
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