Iskandar Malaysia Open Day an attraction for all

30 October 2009, By IRDA

Johor Bahru, Wednesday, October 21 - The 2nd Iskandar Malaysia Open Day for 2009 was a success and it attracted more than 3,000 visitors and job seekers, exceeding the original targeted volume of 2,000 visitors and job seekers. The exhibition was held at the Persada Johor International Convention Center from October 11th to October 12th.

Themed “a Vision for All”, the two-day exhibition showcased the progress that has been taking place in Iskandar Malaysia since its launch three years ago. Visitors were delighted to learn about the world-class facilities and amenities that Iskandar Malaysia would offer to the current and future generation.

Alpha Anggun Sdn Bhd senior business development executive Ahmad Saiful Azwan said that he was able to get a lot of information on tourism and hospitality at the exhibition.

“I could see the opportunities and now have a greater understanding of the overall development,” he said, adding that he was looking forward to more Iskandar Malaysia Open Days.

Another visitor, Lim Boon Kwee, Sales Manager for Mal Wah Selatan S/B, said that being in the construction line, it was crucial for him to keep up-to-date with Iskandar Malaysia’s progress as he would not want to miss on any opportunities.

“We follow and monitor closely the development in this region and this Open Day is a great platform for us to learn more about what is happening and what is available,” said Lim.

Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) Chief Executive Officer Harun Johari said that this 2nd Open Day was essential to provide the latest information and update on development not just to locals but also to everyone in the country.

“This Open Day is a follow up from the first Open Day held in May this year, but is more focused on the employment opportunities in Iskandar Malaysia. This is to address the feedback we received at the last Open Day.

“Since the inception of Iskandar Malaysia three years ago, IRDA has been working hand-in-hand with other agencies to uplift the quality of life for those living, working and relaxing here through various initiatives and efforts.

“These initiatives are holistically planned in all areas including social development, human capital development, investment and infrastrcuture,” he said.

He added that IRDA would continue to work closely with all industry players and partners of Iskandar Malaysia as well as the Government department and agencies to continue showcasing the progress of Iskandar Malaysia and the benefits it brings to the community.

Participating exhibitors included several key players and partners - Iskandar Investment Bhd, Iskandar Waterfront Development Sdn. Bhd., MSC Cyberport Sdn. Bhd, Monash University, Regency Hospital, Johor Corporation, UEM Land Bhd and agencies such as Telekom Malaysia Bhd, Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (MIDA) and Johor State Investment Centre.
In addition to showcasing the overall progress and development of the region, the 2nd Open Day exhibits also focused on the achievements of various components within the Iskandar Malaysia Comprehensive Development Plan, with emphasis on the Human Capital Development and Integrated Planning Blue-prints.

A mini Career Fair was organised to support the Human Capital development initiatives. During the Career Fair, 16 exhibitors encompassing government agencies and the private sector were offering employment opportunities to the existing workforce and local graduates.

“It was a good opportunity for us to participate in this event and helpful support was extended by the team from IRDA to meet our needs” explained Emmanuel, the Human Resource Manager for Panasonic AVC Networks, one of the exhibitors at the Fair.

Among the participating companies at the career fair were Thistle Hotel, Panasonic, Pan Century Oleochemicals Sdn Bhd, Flextronics Plastic (M) Sdn Bhd, Beyonics Technology Sdn Bhd, Lion Eco Chemicals Sdn. Bhd, Lam Soon Edible Oils Sdn Bhd, All Cosmos Industries Sdn Bhd, Wen Ken Drug Sdn Bhd and CareerXcell.

The event was officiated by Local Government, Housing, Arts, Culture and Heritage Datuk Ahmad Zahri Jamil, who in his speech lauded the fact that Johor state’s economic average at 4.6% was higher than the national average of 3.6%.

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About IRDA

The Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) is the regulatory authority mandated to plan, promote and facilitate the development of Iskandar Malaysia into a strong and sustainable metropolis of international standing, where living, working, business and leisure converge seamlessly. For media inquiries, please contact Ahmad Asri Khalbi at 019-728 7642 or Ms. Marsha Tan at 019-777 8475.