New work group to study joint economic project in Iskandar Malaysia

05 November 2009 , By Chanel News Asia

A new work group has been formed to study the joint development of an iconic economic project in Iskandar Malaysia.

This is a follow-up to the discussions between the prime ministers of Malaysia and Singapore in May this year.

They mooted the idea of a bilateral project in Iskandar Malaysia as a showcase of the commitment of both countries to build a strong, productive and enduring relationship.

The set-up of the work group was announced after the fifth working meeting of the Joint Ministerial Committee for Iskandar Malaysia on Wednesday.

A joint statement said the committee also reviewed the progress made so far by the Joint Work Groups on Immigration, Transportation, Tourism, and Environment.

A study has been commissioned to assess the feasibility of nature sites for joint tourism development, which can potentially increase tourism flows between Iskandar Malaysia and Singapore.

The study sites are Sungai Pulai, Tanjung Piai and Pulau Kukup - collectively known as the Ramsar sites in Iskandar Malaysia - and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve in Singapore.

On the immigration front, the pilot of the Malaysian Automated Clearance System that gives frequent travellers to Iskandar Malaysia access to "fast track" lanes was extended to all frequent travellers to Malaysia in September.

Both sides also agreed to double the cross-border bus services by January 2010.

The joint ministerial committee will meet again in the first half of 2010 to review the progress of the joint work groups.