JOHOR BARU: Malaysia and Singapore are exploring ways to implement passport-free travel at their land checkpoints by using a QR code system.
The Economy Ministry and Singapore's Trade and Industry Ministry, in a joint statement, said passport-free travel was among the initiatives aimed at supporting the development of the Johor-Singapore special economic zone (SEZ).
"The adoption and implementation of a passport-free QR code clearance system on both sides will facilitate more expeditious clearance of people at land checkpoints," said the ministries.
Other initiatives include establishing a one-stop business/ investment centre in Johor to facilitate the application processes for various approvals and licenses necessary for Singapore businesses to set up in Johor.
Also included is digitising the process for cargo clearance at land checkpoints as well as the facilitation of Malaysia-Singapore renewable energy cooperation to drive economic growth.
Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said the JS-SEZ presents an unprecedented opportunity to enhance the cross-border flow of goods and people, bolster the business ecosystem and enhance the economic attractiveness of both Johor and Singapore.
"I have full confidence that this initiative will herald the commencement of a transformative chapter in our bilateral economic relations, fostering unparalleled connectivity and prosperity for both our great nations," he added.
Singapore Minister of Trade and Industry, Gan Kim Yong said the JS-SEZ would serve as a bridge for both countries to tap into each other's strengths and seize opportunities to grow together.
"I look forward to the JS-SEZ agreement and the benefits for our businesses and people," he added.
Both parties said the JS-SEZ will ride on Johor's strong growth and Singapore's significant investments in the region.
Last month, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi proposed the implementation of a QR code system akin to Singapore's at the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) complex at the Sultan Iskandar building in the state capital.
He said measures such as multiple entry visas, special passes, and sufficient workforce from the immigration and customs departments were crucial towards ensuring the smooth travel of workers, visitors and merchandise between Johor and Singapore.
Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his Singapore counterpart, Lee Hsien Loong, witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the development of the SEZ by Rafizi and Gan.
In 2022, Johor recorded RM70.6 billion worth of investments across various sectors, including electrical and electronics, medical equipment, food manufacturing and data centres.
Meanwhile, Singapore was Johor's second-largest foreign investor from January to June 2022, and accounted for around 70 per cent of Johor's total foreign direct investment (FDI) in the manufacturing sector.
