IMS contributes over RM1.3bil to Johor's economy since 2014

JOHOR BARU: Iskandar Malaysia Studios (IMS) has contributed more than RM1.3 billion to Johor's economy since it began operating in 2014, through film production projects, television series and international productions.

IMS chief executive officer, Rashid Karim said the contribution encompasses direct production expenditure, including payments to local crew, construction of filming sets, production support services, accommodation, catering, transportation and rental of equipment.

"IMS continues to grow as the largest integrated production facility in Southeast Asia. Since 2014, we have received more than 120 projects, comprising films, television series and international productions.

"The cumulative production value in 2026 is estimated to reach RM100 million, and this economic contribution continues to grow each year as more productions choose Johor as a filming location," he told Bernama.

On development plans, Rashid said IMS would strengthen its use of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual production and light-emitting diode (LED) display technology to enhance the facility's ability to attract more international productions.

He said the transition to these technologies was also being implemented through IMS' collaboration with OMG Studios, enabling productions to create virtual backgrounds in real time, thus reducing travel costs, filming time and the need for physical locations.

He noted that the use of virtual production technology at IMS had increased, with more than eight projects utilising the technique year-to-date, compared with more than six projects in 2025 and fewer than five projects in 2024.

Over the next three to five years, he said IMS aimed to increase its production value to at least RM150 million annually, driven by the continuation of the Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI), the development of new sets and the adoption of the latest technologies.

Rashid highlighted that about 60 per cent of projects at IMS in 2026 comprised overseas productions, particularly from the United States, Singapore and China.

He said competitive production costs, the FIMI incentive, international-standard facilities and Johor's proximity to Singapore were among key considerations in their decision.

"Johor has an advantage due to its proximity to Singapore and is supported by the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), which offers access to talent and regional markets at more competitive operating costs.

"The combination of IMS' facilities and experienced local workforce puts Johor in a position with the potential to grow as a regional production hub," he said.