Render by ZHA

Johor Bahru, Malaysia

2024 - TBC

Johor Corporation (JCorp)

Ibrahim Technopolis Discovery City

The 582-acre Discovery City masterplan will be ZHA’s first project in Malaysia.

A model of environmentally conscious design

Johor Corporation's (JCorp) wholly owned investee company, JLand Group Sdn Bhd (JLG), have announced a pioneering collaboration with ZHA to develop the mixed-use 582-acre Discovery City precinct within Ibrahim Technopolis (IBTEC), the 7,290-acre township in Johor, Malaysia.


Set to become a model of environmentally conscious design integrating seamlessly with the region's distinctive landscapes, IBTEC is planned as a major circular city within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). With a Gross Development Value of RM27 billion, IBTEC is a key destination for strategic expansion in southern Malaysia.

Integrating with natural surroundings

ZHA are leading the Discovery City design, in addition to designing the centrepiece of the masterplan – the RM269 million cultural centre by ZHA will be the practice's first building in Malaysia. HIJJAS Architects and Planners is the Local Project Architect while AJM-Planning and Urban Design Group Sdn Bhd (APUDG) serve as the local master planner and the Principal Submitting Person (PSP) for the Development Order plan of Discovery City.


ZHA's design approach for Discovery City will prioritise the integration with Johor's natural surroundings, reflecting IBTEC's vision of a circular city where innovation thrives. Staying true to this vision, ZHA will establish the framework for Discovery City's ecologically sustainable architecture, together with innovations in 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.

Prioritising locally sourced and recycled materials

Using the advanced design and construction technologies developed by ZHA, Discovery City will prioritise the use of locally sourced and recycled materials as well as incorporate renewable power generation and rainwater harvesting to reduce energy and water consumption. Discovery City will also include ZHA's first building in Malaysia, showcasing their vision of 21st Century architecture and sustainable design.


Adhering to both local and international standards, including the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC)’s Low Carbon Cities Framework (LCCF) and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) international certification, Discovery City will demonstrate IBTEC's commitment to environmentally sustainable development.

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