Kuok Group’s Allgreen Properties revamps Johor Bahru City Square for RTS link
[KUALA LUMPUR] Singapore-based Allgreen Properties, a member of Kuok Group, has unveiled a multi-phase asset enhancement initiative (AEI) for Johor Bahru City Square (JBCS).
The strategic upgrade is timed to reposition the mall and capitalise on the anticipated rise in cross-border retail demand driven by improved connectivity between Johor and Singapore, particularly with the upcoming Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS).
The 4 km RTS cross-border service is expected to start operations by end-2026, ferrying as many as 10,000 commuters moving in both directions per hour, cutting cross-border travel to under 10 minutes.
Opened in 1999, JBCS has been a central retail landmark for the city for more than two decades, drawing both Johor residents and Singaporean day-trippers due to its location just steps from the Johor Bahru-Singapore Causeway.
In a media statement on Monday (Nov 3), Allgreen Properties said the multi-phase redevelopment begins this month, with completion targeted for the fourth quarter of 2027.
The AEI will introduce a refreshed facade, reconfigured interiors, enhanced circulation and an expanded retail mix. The number of retailers is expected to rise to over 300 from the current 247, supported by new anchor tenants, speciality concepts and experience-led zones.
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More than just new look
Tho Leong Chye, managing director of Allgreen Properties, said the revamp of JBCS is not just unveiling a striking new look, “it’s about shaping a future-ready destination”.
“By combining refreshed spaces with a curated mix of new brands and experiences, we are investing in JBCS’ future to ensure it continues to thrive as the vibrant heart of retail, leisure and lifestyle for generations to come,” he said in the statement.
Details on the capital expenditure for the JBCS overhaul remain undisclosed, as Allgreen Properties did not respond to The Business Times’ request for comment by press time.
Prior to the AEI, Allgreen Properties re-acquired full ownership of JBCS in a deal estimated at RM850 million (S$263 million) in 2024, after previously divesting a stake to Singapore sovereign wealth fund GIC Real Estate in 2004.
More leisure and wellness offerings
The redevelopment will roll out in five phases, with the mall remaining operational throughout.
Key features include a 15,000 square foot (sq ft) Kids Adventure Park, a 41,300 sq ft health and wellness hub, a large-format event space and integrated hotel apartments slated for completion in the second quarter of 2028, introducing a live-work-play dimension to the site.
Sustainability and digital upgrades, including energy-efficient cooling systems, smart parking, enhanced connectivity and waste management improvements, will also be implemented, said the company.
Allgreen Properties is one of Asia’s leading real estate groups with a diversified portfolio spanning residential, retail, commercial, serviced apartments and hotels.
Incorporated in 1986, the group has expanded beyond Singapore through strategic joint ventures with Kerry Properties to develop a range of landmark mixed-use projects across China.
