Transformation is arriving fast to the southern state of Johor. The Sedenak Tech Park (STeP), a well-connected area near Kulai Town, has already captured the attention of data centre hyperscalers with an IT load in excess of 800MW. The zone boasts connectivity to the national digital superhighway with transmission speeds of over 800 Gbps. This wave of change is reshaping Johor’s technological landscape at an unprecedented pace, promising a future of unparalleled innovation and connectivity.
Malaysia’s new tech valley aims to go beyond fostering Johor’s ambition to become the next data centre hub.
The larger Ibrahim Technopolis, which spans more than 7,000 acres, will include residential, commercial and industrial developments. Solar Farms will provide sustainable power to assure compliance with the national Low Carbon Cities Framework (LCCF). Various initiatives are under way to roll out renewable energy and green mobility solutions.
JLand Group (JLG), a subsidiary of Johor Corporation with activities in real estate development, asset lifecycle management, real estate investment, as well as infrastructure and utilities, is the driving force behind these groundbreaking initiatives. The company had to redefine itself first before embarking on this visionary journey.
“In our industry, we are often compartmentalised into the broad categories of residential, industrial, and commercial real estate which have been a traditional framework and bedrock for organising our efforts,” explains Datuk Akmal Ahmad, Director of JCorp’s Real Estate and Infrastructure Division, Deputy Chairman of JLG and Group Managing Director of Damansara Holdings Berhad.
“We must transcend these labels and recognise that real estate is not just about properties; it’s about the dreams, aspirations, and needs of the people and businesses we serve. We want to build opportunities, create new value in the ecosystem and thrive for a smarter and more sustainable future.”
The company envisions residential real estate no longer as merely constructing houses: homes create memories for families, they provide comfort and security. Industrial and commercial buildings have to enable businesses to innovate, produce, and connect with the world.
As an end-to-end real estate and asset management solution provider, we ask ourselves how we actually elevate the experience of our customers, tenants or partners.” — Akmal
How to transform a traditional industry
Technology continues to disrupt entire industries. Traditional sectors, such as real estate, have been particularly vulnerable and in need for change. JLG’s digital strategy pivot targets core areas, from customer experience and operational excellence, to financial resilience which ultimately boosts investor performance.
“Technology is not just a part of our lives; it’s the backbone of our societies and economies. The internet, artificial intelligence (AI), automation and big data are catalysing rapid transformation,” says Datuk Akmal. “It’s imperative that we not only recognise the drivers of change and challenges, but that we embrace them as opportunities for growth and transformation. We need to leverage our strengths, remain agile, and continuously innovate.”
JLG’s new approach creates a privileged role for the customer. “To be a preferred real estate company, a solution provider, the key is to truly understand the people who make our businesses thrive—our customers,” Datuk Akmal adds.
“As an end-to-end real estate and asset management solution provider, we ask ourselves how we actually elevate the experience of our customers, tenants or partners. How can we make their lives better through our services, solutions and interactions?”
Reimagined applications and online platforms serve as both a customer-centric hub and a communal marketplace. Tools like JLG’s Kita, still in its dynamic development phase, serves as a platform where residents can access information, submit requests and schedule appointments, could in the future facilitate interactions and assist one another. Homebuyers require a variety of professional services to enhance their quality of life, and businesses could then promote these services with discounts and special offers. Similar to a super app, this app which is a dynamic work in progress would equip residents with the instruments they need to make decisions and solve problems effortlessly.
Smart cities and smart buildings
The idea aligns with the company’s new approach that aims to not just build structures, but vibrant, thriving communities where individuals can live, play, and work harmoniously. It wants to create a holistic ecosystem where residential, commercial, and industrial spaces seamlessly coexist, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
JLG is actively exploring enhancements to its buildings from an ESG perspective, which will enable tenants to fulfil their emission reporting requirements. In addition, the firm has set a target to increase the use of renewable energy sources for electricity generation by 2030. It also aims to decrease the amount of waste sent to landfills. Implementation of IoT sensors for energy and power monitoring, along with innovative cooling technologies, will contribute to a reduction in the company’s CO2 footprint.
The Sanubari Smart Township in Bandar Dato’ Onn is a self-sustaining development with designated green spaces and sustainable electricity and waste management systems. This includes rainwater harvesting, natural filtering of polluted water, smart street lighting, and various solar installations to enhance energy efficiency. The establishment of a wetland park supports biodiversity preservation and pollution mitigation in Sungai Tebrau.
Innovation is the cornerstone of Sanubari, evident in the modern and contemporary design of its units. With the installation of smart technology, Sanubari residents can easily control every aspect of their homes with just one-touch commands, from opening motorized curtains to switching on air conditioners. Sanubari homes also come with a smart entrance lock set, door and window sensors, and the ability to monitor their homes remotely, providing real-time notifications through the KITA App for peace of mind.
Additionally, Sanubari’s state-of-the-art technology offers residents sustainable living options, including solar panels and electric vehicle charging points. Solar power fuels the neighborhood’s street lights, reducing the carbon footprint. Sanubari is committed to eco-friendly practices, encompassing rainwater harvesting and a smart waste management system for a greener tomorrow.
The way forward
JLG is on a journey to new heights thanks to a fundamental shift in mindset to become an exponential organisation. The firm wants to be bold in achieving this transformation: Bold in its sustainability transition, in its connectivity and digitalisation efforts, as well as its global vision, reaching out beyond borders.
“Customers are incredibly discerning; they crave a seamless experience tailored to their needs, rather than just a product or service,” says Datuk Akmal. “Crafting an integrated value proposition transcends mere marketing jargon; it involves understanding our customers desires and challenges.”
The company is moving away from the traditional asset-centric model, embracing the dynamic world of digital solutions and intellectual property utilisation. By integrating business divisions and tapping into synergies, JLG believes that it can create value that is far greater than the sum of its parts. The cohesive approach lets customers benefit from the amplified strength.
“Enhancing human experience” has become a central vision of the firm. “There are a lot of real estate companies out there,” says Datuk Akmal. “The question has to be how do you actually differentiate yourselves as a real estate company. Our digital-led innovation approach, powered by ground-up ideation and agile methodologies, ensures that we stay at the forefront of innovation.” JLG has clearly positioned itself.
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