KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 14): JLand Group (JLG), the real estate and infrastructure arm of Johor Corporation (JCorp), has signed a three-year collaboration with China’s ZGC International Holding Ltd to position Johor as a regional hub for innovation and high-tech investment.

The partnership aims to attract global technology firms to JLG’s industrial assets, including the Ibrahim Technopolis (IBTEC) and developments within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).

Signed under a non-binding memorandum of understanding, the alliance will focus on three initiatives: supporting international companies in relocating to Johor; co-developing and promoting JS-SEZ projects; and establishing a Johor innovation centre for research and development and ecosystem building.

“This partnership is a strategic leap forward in scaling our ecosystems globally,” said JLG group managing director Datuk Akmal Ahmad.

“ZGC brings a tested innovation model and powerful global reach that will help connect the IBTEC and JS-SEZ with future-focused companies, capital, and technologies.”

ZGC International is recognised for its end-to-end innovation services, including start-up incubation, investment match-making, and talent sourcing, with a global presence across the US, Europe and Asia.

“JLand Group’s vision aligns with our business strategy to connect global innovation with high-potential markets,” said ZGC International general manager Lu Jiang.

The partnership is expected to support national and state-level economic strategies under Maju Johor 2030 and the 13th Malaysia Plan, with a focus on digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence and cross-border economic zones.