Saturday-Sunday weekend in Johor can boost FDI, says Teo

Johor DAP chairperson Teo Nie Ching has expressed hope that a decision to revert weekends in the state to Saturday and Sunday effective Jan 1 next year will boost foreign direct investments.

In a statement, Teo (above) welcomed the announcement from Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim who also said the decision received Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar’s consent.

"It is my great hope that this change will attract more foreign investors as part of the state’s efforts to support the country’s economic growth.

“What more after Johor reportedly recorded a trade value of RM753 billion or 29 percent of the country’s total trade last year,” she said.

The deputy communications minister added that the time frame given before the change is implemented is reasonable to allow for better coordination among all affected parties in the public and private sectors.

Easier to deal with other states

The change was also viewed as one that would ease the dealings of Johor-based companies with partners from other states or countries.

Tebrau MP Jimmy Puah said it is expected to strengthen business cooperation and increase the competitiveness of companies in Johor.

"I am confident that with the implementation of this decree, Johor’s overall productivity can be increased and further boost economic growth.

“It is the right move to ensure Johor continues to develop in line with other states, as well as on an international level,” he added.

Earlier today, Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the change of weekends from Friday and Saturday to Saturday and Sunday will affect close to 2.5 million Johoreans comprising students and workers in the public and private sectors.

Johor to revert to Saturday, Sunday weekend next year - TMJ

Census: Average salary in KL double that of Kelantan

Forest City special financial zone tax incentives to be finalised end-May: MB