Southern Catalyst Sdn Bhd (SOCAT) is transforming the former Ladang Air Manis plantation into Nexus Sedenak, a 2,940-acre integrated development with a gross development value of RM15 billion.
The project, a major industrial and logistics hub within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), is designed to expand Johor’s high-value industrial capacity by attracting investment in advanced manufacturing, logistics and other technology-driven sectors across Southeast Asia.
Positioned as a next-generation economic ecosystem, Nexus Sedenak integrates industrial zones, logistics infrastructure, commercial components and supporting lifestyle elements. Target sectors include advanced manufacturing, logistics, Agri-Tech, Food-Tech, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals and green technology.
SOCAT Chief Operating Officer Mohd Shahreza Maswan said the development represents a strategic shift from plantation land to a future-ready industrial ecosystem, supported by a joint venture with IJM Land to accelerate execution and development.
During the Nexus Sedenak launching ceremony, several strategic partnerships were also formalised, including a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd in exploring the development of an inland port linked to ASEAN-China rail cargo networks.
SOCAT also entered a collaboration with PIJ Holdings to develop a Johor Halal Trading Hub, alongside an MoU with the Johor Talent Development Council to support workforce development for future industries.
Mohd Shahreza emphasised that the RM15 billion development is expected to drive investment inflows, strengthen regional supply chains and create high-value employment, reinforcing Johor’s position as a key growth node within the JS-SEZ and the broader ASEAN economic corridor.
