CTOS SME Biz Day arrives in Johor Bahru on 9 July 2025, uniting industry leaders and SMEs to accelerate digital transformation and leverage opportunities in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). The event aims to equip businesses with the tools, insights, and partnerships needed to thrive in today’s evolving digital economy.
MALAYSIA, 27 JUNE 2025 – Following successful editions in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, CTOS SME Biz Day is set to make its next stop in Johor Bahru on 9 July 2025 at Persada Johor International Convention Centre, as part of its nationwide initiative to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia.
This third leg of the tour is timely, given Johor’s strategic business location and its proximity to Singapore. The launch of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) has further strengthened Johor’s position as a regional business hub, opening up new possibilities for cross-border trade, collaboration, and innovation.
According to CTOS, more than 50,000 SMEs in Johor have already begun their digital transformation journeys. However, many businesses remain in the early stages of adoption, often limited by skill gaps, financing challenges, and compliance complexities. With the JS-SEZ creating high-impact opportunities in sectors such as logistics, digital services, and advanced manufacturing, the need for deeper integration into the digital economy has never been more urgent.
“The bilateral strengths of Malaysia and Singapore create a powerful foundation for cross-border collaboration, innovation, and economic growth,” said Kevin Loh, Interim Group CEO of CTOS Digital. “At CTOS, we are committed to supporting SMEs in Johor with the tools, data, and partnerships needed to grow and succeed in this digital-first economy.”
What to Expect at CTOS SME Biz Day Johor Bahru
The event brings together government agencies, corporate leaders, and digital innovators for a full day of discussions and collaboration, focusing on the most critical topics facing SMEs today:
- e-Invoicing Compliance & Guidance: Learn from LHDN experts on the latest developments, practical requirements, and compliance needs around Malaysia’s e-Invoicing rollout.
- Opportunities in JS-SEZ: A deep dive into how SMEs can prepare and benefit from the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, including incentives, cross-border dynamics, and strategic positioning.
- Digital Tools, AI & Social Media for SMEs: Explore how AI, automation, and social media platforms can accelerate business growth and enhance customer engagement.
Featured Speakers Include:
- Dato’ CC Ngei, Founder, Feruni Ceramiche
- Dato’ Calvin Chan, Managing Director, Oriental Kopi
- Dr. Jeff Lim, CEO, Luckin Coffee Malaysia & Hextar Retail Berhad
- Mohd. Redzuan Affandi, Director, Digital Services Department, MDEC
- Mohd Syazli Mokhtar, Assistant Director, Tax Operations, LHDN
- Mohd Haris Abdul Latif, Senior Manager, MATRADE
- Pamela Tan, Founder & Director, Poh Sin Studio
- Anjoe Koh, Founder, Anjoe Skincare / MadebyAnjoe
- Nur Azre Abdul Aziz, Director, Strategic Partnerships, TikTok Malaysia
The panels aim to inspire and empower business owners with real-world insights and practical strategies, aligning with CTOS’s broader mission to be a catalyst for SME development and Malaysia’s national digital agenda.