Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) is eyeing up to six international theme parks in Iskandar Malaysia within the next two or three years.

Its chief executive, Ismail Ibrahim, said Iskandar Malaysia currently has two theme parks - Legoland Malaysia and the Hello Kitty theme park.

“We are currently in talks with several international theme park companies and we will be making the announcement at the appropriate time.

“We are not in the position to reveal the names yet as they are still under discussions,” he told Bernama on the sidelines of the second Global Free Trade & Special Economic Zones Exhibition and Summit in Kuala Lumpur today.

IRDA is the developer of Iskandar Malaysia.

Ismail said the launch of Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia studio in Medini Iskandar Malaysia in May was expected to further enhance the economic region’s appeal to international investors, especially those in the creative industry.

“Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia Studios will provide full-fledged facilities and support services for film production.

“Apart from the development infrastructure, IRDA and Pinewood Iskandar are jointly conducting training for film production professionals to meet the requirements of the studio’s clients,” he said.

Meanwhile, the summit also showcased the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) and the Higher Corp for Specialised Economic Zones.

The MOU has confirmed the intention of both parties to engage in cooperative activities of common interest and mutual benefit with the objectives of attracting public and private investment and enterprise and furthering sustainable growth, development and diversification in respect of the sectors they represent.

The second Global Free Trade & Special Economic Zones Exhibition and Summit is the world’s leading platform to link foreign direct investments, manufacturers, industry and investors directly with global locations for their business.

The three-day summit, starting today, allows investors to network with the world’s international trade organisations, government, investment promotion agencies, manufacturers, suppliers and industrial locations through one event.

- Bernama