Singapore Retailers Association and CapitaLand Investment enter into a partnership to support cross-border retail expansion
Johor Bahru, 7 May 2026 – A major milestone was achieved today with the groundbreaking of Coronation Square Mall and two residential blocks, part of Phase 2 of Coronation Square. The landmark integrated development is set to transform Johor Bahru city centre into a vibrant regional destination. The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests including YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz bin Ghazi, Menteri Besar of Johor and Mr Ng Kuan Khai, Singapore’s Consul-General to Johor Bahru.
Strategically located in the city centre of Johor Bahru, Coronation Square will have direct connectivity to the upcoming Johor Bahru – Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS). This seamless link between Malaysia and Singapore is expected to significantly enhance cross-border mobility, positioning the development as a key gateway for business, lifestyle and investment.
The development will feature Johor Bahru city centre’s largest retail mall, complemented by residential, hospitality, medical and commercial components. Designed to serve both local communities and the growing visitor population, the development is supported by strong infrastructure and accessibility.
Developer’s Vision
Datuk Patrick Lim, Managing Director of Coronade Properties, said: “Today’s groundbreaking marks the next phase of our vision to shape Johor Bahru into a connected and vibrant city centre. Coronation Square is designed as a ‘city within a city’, bringing together infrastructure, businesses and community within one integrated development. As we move into Phase 2 with Coronation Square Mall, we are building more than just retail. We are creating an ecosystem that supports businesses, creates jobs and serves the daily needs of the community.”
Facilitating Regional Retail Expansion
On the sidelines of the groundbreaking ceremony, Singapore Retailers Association (SRA) and CapitaLand Investment (CLI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support Singapore retailers expanding into Johor Bahru. Under this collaboration, both parties will work together to facilitate market entry opportunities, pilot retail concepts such as pop-ups, and organise knowledge-sharing sessions to provide retailers with deeper insights into Johor Bahru’s consumer landscape.
Vivien Lim, Vice President, SRA, said, “Johor Bahru has emerged as one of the most accessible and promising markets for Singapore retailers looking to expand regionally. Through this collaboration with CLI, we aim to ensure our members are well-positioned to seize these opportunities with the right market insights and support.”
Tan Mui Neo, Managing Director, Retail Management, Commercial Management (Singapore), CLI, added, “As Singapore’s largest mall operator with established retail platforms across Malaysia and China, CLI brings both regional scale and local expertise to this partnership. We are well-placed to bring together quality brands from across the region, and Coronation Square’s “Where the World Meets Johor” positioning reflects this ambition. Through this MoU with SRA, we hope to take some of the uncertainty out of regional expansion, connecting retailers with the right market insights, opportunities and partners on the ground.”
