The facility to be built in Phase A of the Pelepas Free Zone over an area of 31.46 acres will be developed at an initial cost of US100 million which will increase to more than US$200 million over a ten year period. The new plant which is to be the most advanced of its kind will part of JST's long term goal of being the global leader in electronic and electric connectors.

The lease agreement was signed today with Port of Tanjung Pelepas CEO Datuk Mohd Sidik Shaik Osman representing PTP whereas JST was represented by their Chairwoman Ms. Miyoko Nishimoto.

A spokesperson for JST said that the factors that contributed to their decision to locate in the Pelepas Free Zone included the lower overall costs of business, logistics facilitation especially with their Singapore and Indonesian operations as well as the extensive and effective distribution network available through PTP to reach out to their global market. In addition, the incentives offered by the Malaysian government through the Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (MIDA) and the political stability of Malaysia were also deciding factors.

With annual global sales of more than US$ 1 billion and a global workforce of over 6,000 JST is a key supplier to the leading companies and MNCs in the electronics, telecommunications and automotive industry.

Datuk Mohd Sidik Shaik Osman, CEO of PTP said, " We are beginning to see the start of an industry cluster for the electronics industry here in the Pelepas Free Zone which over time will have a significant impact on the local cargo volumes handled by the port. JST's decision to set up operations in Pelepas Free Zone will create new demand for specific services such as precision parts processing, plastic moulding and stamping contractors. This will have a very positive effect on the overall development of south west Johor and the Gelang Patah area specifically"

Background Information - Port of Tanjung Pelepas - the gateway to Southeast Asia.

PTP, S.E. Asia's fastest growing port is strategically located at the southwest shoulder of Johor with a minimum diversion time from the confluence of the main international shipping lanes. PTP's strategic location presents significant geographical advantages through its deep waters, sheltered bay and wide access channel. PTP offers 8 berths of 360m each totalling 2.88 km in length. backed up by one of the largest container yards in the region with a storage capacity of 154,000 teu.

For further information please contact Nasser Ismail of PTP at Tel : +60 7 504 2222; mobile at +6019-7201082 or Fax : +60 7 504 2166.