ISKANDAR INVESTMENT BERHAD AND KILSA GLOBAL COLLABORATE TO UNLOCK SOUTHEAST ASIAN MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Seoul, 30 September 2024 – Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) is excited to announce a strategic partnership with KILSA Global to accelerate the entry of Korean startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into Southeast Asia. This collaboration not only aims to position Medini and Iskandar Puteri as key hubs for Korean innovators but also to attract global talent, investment, and innovation to Johor, contributing to the state’s economic growth and development.

IIB, a catalyst for the transformation of Iskandar Malaysia, continues to develop Medini as a sustainable urban hub with a focus on technology, innovation, and business services. Medini and Iskandar Puteri offer a robust ecosystem that supports cutting-edge industries. Situated just 45 minutes from Singapore, Medini’s connectivity will soon be further enhanced by major infrastructure projects like the Rapid Transit System (RTS), Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART), and the potential High-Speed Rail (HSR). These projects will strengthen Medini’s links to Singapore and other ASEAN markets, reinforcing its role as a key gateway for global investors and an ideal launchpad for Korean businesses in Southeast Asia’s market of over 660 million people and a combined GDP of USD 3 trillion.

Dato’ Idzham Mohd Hashim, President/CEO of IIB, stated, “Our collaboration with KILSA Global opens exciting new opportunities for Korean startups and SMEs to establish a strong presence in Southeast Asia, while contributing to the region’s economic growth. At IIB, we are committed to facilitating Korean businesses by providing comprehensive investment support, connecting them with key agencies like Invest Johor, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and Malaysian Development Economic Corporation (MDEC) for a seamless setup process. Through this partnership, we aim to foster a vibrant innovation ecosystem that encourages collaboration between Korean businesses, local industry players, and educational institutions. This will enable access to mentorship, networking, and talent development opportunities, ensuring Korean innovators have the resources, infrastructure, and networks to scale and succeed.”

As a hub for innovation, Medini hosts strategic initiatives such as Tech Medini and GBS Iskandar @ Medini, where a multitude of multinational corporations have already established their presence. With over USD 30 billion invested in infrastructure, the city has become a thriving centre equipped with world-class facilities, making it an ideal location for businesses to scale in the region.

KILSA Global is a Singapore-headquartered expansion service platform with a strong presence across Southeast Asia and Korea. The company specialises in helping businesses seamlessly enter global markets by offering localised expansion services and access to extensive regional networks. KILSA Global enables its clients to unlock diverse opportunities, establish a market presence, and accelerate growth with minimal investment.

Mr. Philip Jongseok Park, Managing Director of KILSA Global, added, “This collaboration provides Korean businesses with a gateway into one of the fastest-growing regions in the world. With over 30,000 Korean SMEs actively seeking overseas expansion and contributing to more than 99% of Korea’s business landscape, Southeast Asia presents a significant opportunity. The region’s digital economy is projected to reach USD 300 billion by 2025, and we are excited to connect Korean startups and SMEs with the immense potential Medini and Iskandar Puteri have to offer, particularly in the technology and innovation space.”

Through strategic initiatives like this, IIB is not only enabling business growth but also contributing to Johor’s transformation by attracting international talent, fostering innovation, and boosting local industries. IIB remains committed to building a sustainable and inclusive metropolis of the future in Johor.

About Iskandar Investment BerhadIskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) is a Catalyst of Change and a key player in Iskandar Malaysia’stransformation into a regional metropolis of international standing. Incorporated in November 2006,IIB is tasked to ensure that Iskandar Malaysia continues its successful trajectory into an attractiveinvestment destination in Southeast Asia and a vibrant, liveable region of Malaysia via catalyticprojects. IIB focuses on the development of Iskandar Puteri in the education, technology, ESG,tourism, entertainment, and health and wellness sectors. IIB’s impactful accomplishments includethe successful joint ventures and investment partnerships in EduCity, LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort,Iskandar Puteri, Medini and other infrastructure projects under the 9th Malaysia Plan in IskandarMalaysia. IIB is committed to steering economic and environmentally sustainable growth in IskandarMalaysia and ensuring inclusive developments for local Iskandarians through employment andincome opportunities.