A Landmark Development with Sustainability and Smart City features at its core
Discovery City at Ibrahim Technopolis (IBTEC) exemplifies Zaha Hadid Architects’ (ZHA) innovative design, blending modern architecture with verdant landscapes to craft a sustainable and tranquil urban sanctuary, brought to life. These design principles are illustrated in this conceptual representation of the suggested interior composition proposed by ZHA for some buildings within Discovery City at Ibrahim Technopolis (IBTEC)
JOHOR BAHRU, 20 AUGUST 2024 – Johor Corporation’s (JCorp) wholly owned investee company, JLand Group Sdn Bhd (JLG), today announced a groundbreaking collaboration with the internationally acclaimed Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) to develop the Discovery City precinct within IBTEC. This innovative mixed-use 582-acre development will take place within the 7,290-acre Ibrahim Technopolis or IBTEC township which is set to become a model of environmentally conscious design integrated seamlessly with the region’s unique topography. The innovative mixed-use 582-acre development will see Zaha Hadid Architects leading the design, while AJM Planning and Urban Design Group Sdn Bhd (APUDG) will serve as the local master planner and the Principal Submitting Person (PSP) for the Development Order plan of Discovery City.
Set to be a major circular city within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ) with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM27 billion, IBTEC is eyed to be the next key destination for strategic expansion in the southern region of Malaysia. Meanwhile, the Gross Development Value (GDV) for the Signature Gallery building, the centrepiece of the mixed-use development, is projected to reach RM269 million upon completion driven by anticipated future demand in the area.
This project, designed by the internationally renowned consultant ZHA, will adhere to both local and international standards, including the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC)’s Low Carbon Cities Framework (LCCF) and international certifications like Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). This commitment is essential for IBTEC’s transformation into an eco-friendly and sustainable development, elevating its status on the global stage.
Zaha Hadid Architects is a globally renowned architectural practice known for acclaimed designs inspired by the organic forms within the natural world and their pioneering use of advanced technologies to enrich the user experience and sustainability of their architecture. ZHA’s award-winning designs include the London Aquatics Centre for the 2012 Olympic Games, Beijing Daxing International Airport in China and the BEEAH Headquarters in UAE which achieve the highest sustainability certification. ZHA’s fluid architectural language creates inspirational public spaces that encompass natural light and ventilation to encourage connectivity and collaboration.
Developing advanced design and construction technologies, ZHA’s architecture prioritises the use of locally sourced and recycled materials. Incorporating renewable power generation and rainwater harvesting to significantly reduce energy and water consumption, each ZHA design demonstrates their commitment to long-term community benefits and minimising environmental impact. This expertise in merging sustainable practices with revolutionary architectural design underscores why ZHA is the perfect visionary force behind the development of the Discovery City precinct.
This landmark project in Discovery City will include ZHA’s first iconic building in Malaysia, showcasing their signature vision of 21st Century architecture and sustainable design. “This partnership reflects our commitment for regional and international collaboration. IBTEC is designed to be a cutting-edge hub, strategically located and built with smart infrastructure to drive innovation, all while ensuring sustainable growth for the future. With this advanced development, it is hoped that it will enhance IBTEC’s presence in the region, as an investment destination and a key component within the JS-SEZ worth billions of ringgit, creating jobs for the local community and cement JLG’s position as an end-to-end real estate developer as a whole.” said Datuk Sr Akmal Ahmad, Deputy Chairman of JLand Group. “Their unique ability to blend form and function while respecting the environment aligns perfectly with our vision for Discovery City”.
ZHA’s design approach for Discovery City prioritises the harmonious integration with Johor’s natural surroundings, reflecting IBTEC’s vision of a circular city where innovation thrives. Staying true to this vision, ZHA will envision sustainable structures, cutting-edge smart city technologies, and a steadfast commitment to minimising environmental impact. By embracing circularity and fostering a symbiotic relationship between the built and natural environments, Discovery City aims to set a new benchmark for sustainable development in Malaysia and the entire region.
“Discovery City will be our first project within Malaysia’s architectural landscape and we are honoured to be awarded this opportunity to explore how architecture can enhance its natural context, creating a synergy between the built and natural environments,” stated Gianluca Racana, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects. “We are committed to crafting an extraordinary development that will both inspire and respect its setting with our maiden project in Malaysia.”
The full launch of the Discovery City precinct is anticipated in 2025.
ABOUT JOHOR CORPORATION
Johor Corporation (JCorp) is a Value-Driven Organisation with total assets in excess of RM25 billion as at end FY2023. JCorp’s flagship companies; Kulim (Malaysia) Berhad, KPJ Healthcare Berhad, QSR Brands (M) Holdings Bhd and JLand Group Sdn Bhd, spearhead the Group’s interests across four core sectors namely Agribusiness, Wellness & Healthcare, Food & Restaurant and Real Estate & Infrastructure.
Its mission and purpose of creation – ‘Membina & Membela’ or Creating Value, Enabling Sustainable Communities, has driven remarkable growth and community development across Johor and Malaysia.
To learn more about JCorp, please visit www.jcorp.com.my
For enquiries please contact:
Group Corporate Communications
Tel : +607 – 219 2692
Email : commccd@jcorp.com.my
ABOUT JLAND GROUP
JLand Group Sdn Bhd (JLG) is a wholly owned real estate and infrastructure arm of Johor Corporation (JCorp), focusing on spearheading the Group’s real estate and infrastructure businesses. JLG’s portfolio spans across diversified real estate activities and investments, ranging from residential and commercial developments, integrated industrial parks to data centres, logistics hubs, digital infrastructure, smart utilities and cutting-edge innovation centres.
JLG’s core businesses encompass four strategic areas, namely Real Estate Development, Asset Lifecycle Management, Real Estate Investment, and Infrastructure Utilities. These pillars serve as the cornerstone for maximising value strategically across our businesses and assets, underpinning our strong foothold across various industries. To learn more about our products and solutions, please visit www.jlandgroup.com.my
ABOUT ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS
Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) redefined architecture for the 21st century with a repertoire of projects that have captured imaginations across the globe. Creating buildings uniquely tailored to the communities they serve, ZHA has been awarded the highest honours from professional and academic institutions worldwide. Founded by Zaha Hadid, ZHA is one of the world’s most consistently inventive architectural studios—and has been for almost 50 years. These decades of pioneering research are inscribed within their buildings to become more spatially inventive, more structurally efficient, more technologically advanced, and more environmentally considerate with every new design. Combining innovative architectural solutions with ecologically sound materials and sustainable construction practices, ZHA’s architecture meets the aspirations of each new generation.