The new south

ASTRONG and sustainable metropolis of international standing.” That’s what Iskandar Development Regional Authority (IRDA) CEO Datuk Ismail Ibrahim hopes to create in Johor Baru, Johor.

“And by sustainable, we mean building something today without compromising the future,” said Ismail, during a mock press conference with the BRATs at the Iskandar Malaysia Information Centre in Danga Bay, Johor Baru.

It’s no surprise, then, that IRDA was behind the development of the Jalan Tan Hiok Nee heritage trail in Johor Baru city. It’s not just economic sustainability Ismail is looking at. Social and environmental sustainability are just as important to him and IRDA.

“There must always be equilibrium between the three,” he said.

When asked which IRDA project he’s most proud of, he replied: “While you are with an organisation, you will never feel satisfied with your achievements. You will always want to improve. You will only feel proud after you leave.”

Ismail admitted sheepishly that he wasn’t an academic overachiever in school.

“But I hold to the principle of opportunity,” he said. “Most of the time, opportunity will only come once. If you wait, it might take many moons, and you could be too old by then.

“So I set certain directions for myself, but if a better opportunity comes along, and the prospects are better, I would take it.”