JOHOR BARU: The implementation of a single border clearance system between Johor, Singapore, and Batam in Indonesia was a key topic during a state delegation's working visit to the Riau Islands on Tuesday.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said that the single border clearance system is aimed at streamlining cross-border movement and enhancing economic collaboration.
The state delegation, led by the menteri besar, met with Batam mayor Muhammad Rudi, who is also the chief of the Batam Development Authority (BP Batam), at Balairungsari, BP Batam.
In addition to the single border clearance system, the discussions covered various avenues for cross-border cooperation and strengthening bilateral relations to boost economic collaboration between the regions.
Other topics included strategies to improve existing infrastructure and ferry services, and fostering healthcare cooperation between Johor and Batam.
Onn Hafiz expressed confidence that these strategic initiatives would enhance trade and investment connectivity, especially with the active implementation of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and Special Financial Zone (SFZ) policies in Johor.
He emphasised that Johor's position as a pivotal economic hub in Southeast Asia would solidify with enhanced regional connectivity, thereby bolstering its economic growth.
"Batam recorded an impressive economic growth of 7.04 percent last year. The positive economic growth is a testament to robust foreign investment, a thriving tourism sector, and infrastructure upgrades in Batam," he added.
