The long-awaited investment figure by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) showed that Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the manufacturing sector increased by 250.0% to RM49 billion in the first nine months of 2018, up from RM14 billion recorded in the same period last year. This significant rise is an indication of the high confidence among foreign investors in Malaysia after the peaceful power transition that began on May 9.

Manufacturers are not just considering government incentives and ready built infrastructure and utilities when choosing a location to set a manufacturing plant. Emphasis and priority is also being placed towards the benefits and convenience offered to workers. This has caused a shift of demand from traditional industrial parks to modern, eco-friendly industrial facilities.

To cope with market demand, industrial parks in Johor have evolved from traditional dull and monotonous factory buildings to modern and contemporary buildings that are either gated or guarded. Furthermore, land use within the parks tend to be mixed and flexible to ensure the integration of “live, work and play” elements and includes recreational parks, worker’s dormitory and other conveniences for inhabitants.