The JS-SEZ poses deep questions for nearby Batam as its competitive advantage hinges on proximity to Singapore, ready land and labour, and generous incentives for investors — just like Johor. Batam is also hampered by connectivity, jurisdiction, and land procurement woes.

Batam Struggles to Up the Ante as Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone Rises

Featured image credit: Getty Images, Batam, Riau Islands, Indonesia – 2007/09/12: An aerial view of a shipping and industrial park on Batam Island in Indonesia. The island enjoys a Special Economic Zone with Singapore so that no taxes are paid on good shipped between the two islands.. (Photo by Jerry Redfern/LightRocket via Getty Images)

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