Ferry service to Singapore?

KOTA ISKANDAR: Several companies have approached the Johor government to set up a ferry service across the Tebrau Straits as it explores new ways to boost connectivity with Singapore.

Johor’s International Trade, Investment and Utilities Committee chairman Jimmy Puah yesterday said ferry services and water taxis were among the new modes for sea connectivity being planned.

“We are exploring new ways as the Causeway and Second Link are already at maximum capacity,” he told a press conference at the state’s administrative centre yesterday.

“Any new facilities must be private initiatives as the government has its economy constraints. The government will play a facilitator role in bringing up these proposals from the private sector.

“The Pasir Gudang and Changi ferry jetties are the proposed locations for the ferry service. We need to study all proposals before submitting them to the federal government.”

Puah will lead a trade mission to Singapore in July.

“We need to enhance trade ties with Singapore because traditionally, Singapore is our big trader and industry partner.”

Apart from Singapore, the exco will visit India and countries in Europe to attract more foreign investments, with emphasis on the digital and cloud industry.

“We are also planning a Japan tour as Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is looking east,” he said.