KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 6): CIMB Group Holdings Bhd (KL:CIMB) has channelled over RM4.2 billion into the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), marking a significant progress in its RM10 billion funding commitment to spur cross-border growth and small and medium enterprise (SME) expansion in the area.

Of the disbursement, RM1.15 billion — nearly one-third — was directed to SMEs, underscoring CIMB’s focus on strengthening the segment as a backbone of the economy and a driver of resilience and inclusive growth.

The update was shared at Forward Future SME 2026, a session jointly organised with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) and the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA), according to CIMB in a statement on Friday.

The event, the first SME-focused platform of its kind in Johor, drew close to 220 participants from across the JS-SEZ and Singapore, including entrepreneurs, investors and policymakers.

CIMB co-chief executive officer of group commercial and transaction banking Ahmad Shazli Kamarulzaman said the initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to enabling SMEs not only to grow domestically, but also to scale regionally and integrate into global value chains.

Accelerating access to capital, partnerships and solutions is critical for SMEs to seize opportunities arising from the JS-SEZ, he said.

CIMB said its focus on Johor aligns with national priorities under the 13th Malaysia Plan and the National Industrial Master Plan 2030, particularly in advancing high-growth, high-value industries.

It also observed that Johor’s economy remains well balanced, with services contributing 37.2% of state gross domestic product (GDP) — driven by logistics, trade and business services — while manufacturing accounts for 29%, reinforcing its role as a key industrial hub.

In 2024, Johor recorded a GDP of RM158 billion, representing 9.6% of Malaysia’s national GDP, ranking it as the country’s third-largest contributor. Its GDP growth was 6.4%, outpacing the national average.

CIMB also affirmed that it will continue to play a catalytic role in advancing sustainable and cross-border growth across the JS-SEZ through its funding commitment and collaboration with key development authorities.

Shares in CIMB closed six sen lower at RM8.46 on Friday, valuing the group at RM91.32 billion. The stock has gained 2.9% over the past year.