Advertorial
Jurong’s International Business Park – developing in tandem with Singapore’s largest business district outside the city centre
Here’s why the business park is an ideal base for companies, especially those that embrace advanced manufacturing.
Anyone who wishes to cut his or her teeth in the tech world is likely to gravitate towards Silicon Valley, while Wall Street is home to some of the biggest names in banking and finance. Industry-specific eco-systems like these – where like-minded peers, both aspiring and successful, gather – is a great way to drive collaborations and innovation.
In Singapore, International Business Park (IBP) in Jurong has gained a foothold in the world of innovative technology, particularly among businesses involved in advanced manufacturing. These include suppliers and manufacturers that power the future of robotics and 3D printing.
IBP, where several CapitaLand properties are located, attracted German multinational conglomerate Thyssenkrupp to set up its only out-of-country TechCenter. The Additive Manufacturing TechCenter Hub – which develops 3D printing solutions for clients all over the world including brands from automotive and chemical industries – has set up shop at the Nordic European Centre within IBP.
Another industry heavyweight, German brand TUV SUD, has invested S$100 million to build an eight-storey building in IBP to house some 600 employees. In support of Singapore’s journey towards becoming a Smart Nation, TUV SUD partnered the Singapore Economic Development Board to introduce the Singapore Smart Industry Readiness Index that aids companies with their industrial transformation efforts. Other ventures undertaken by TUV SUD include the launch of Smart Elderly Care @ Home Centre, a testbed for elderly-centred smart solutions.
IBP is also home to Danish manufacturer Danfoss and Swiss instrumentation supplier Endress+Hauser. Both are major players in the advanced manufacturing field – Danfoss with its know-how in energy-efficient cooling technologies and Endress+Hauser with its expertise in instrument calibration and maintenance.
With all these companies in the mix, IBP is set to be a thriving environment for those in similar fields of work.
THE BUZZ SURROUNDING IBP
The cause of this growing interest in IBP is the rejuvenation of Jurong. This comes in the form of Jurong Lake District (JLD), which has been positioned to be the largest mixed-use business district outside the city centre.
As a new gateway for Singapore, the 360-hectare JLD is strategically located close to innovation hubs such as one-north and the upcoming Jurong Innovation District (JID). Moreover, proximity to the future Tuas mega port and High Speed Rail terminus lends the district a distinct connectivity edge. With the above in mind, JLD is well-placed to host a myriad of businesses from technology industries to regional headquarters.
Green warriors will be heartened to know that JLD is set to be a smart, sustainable and car-lite district. With new public transit developments underway, including the upcoming Jurong Region Line (JRL), residents at JLD will be within a five-minute walk to the nearest MRT station or bus stop. Furthermore, the highly accessible JLD will be served by four MRT lines by 2035.
Other sustainable initiatives being explored include solar panels that capture renewable energy, and a smart logistic management system that prepares future deliveries to be done via bikes or new forms of technology like robots.
Additionally, JLD will have enhanced facilities and amenities for tourists. Those working nearby can look forward to new hotels as well as retail and dining spots, including Jurong Gateway’s 250,000 sqm of retail and F&B spaces. This is not only handy for hosting business travellers but also out-of-office meetings and conferences.
JID, the upcoming advanced manufacturing hub, will be a 10-minute drive from IBP, allowing IBP tenants to be in close proximity to budding talent as well as production lines.
Spanning 600 hectares, JID’s ecosystem comprises five precincts – each with its own focus. For instance, factories will be located in the Bulim precinct, while advanced manufacturing startups will be located at Launchpad @ JID. JID will also feature Singapore’s first underground logistics network, which allows efficient packing and movement of goods.
IBP’S ROLE IN THE UP-AND-COMING BUSINESS DISTRICT
JLD, with its improved infrastructure and increase in commercial activity, has all the makings of a modern business district.
Advancing in tandem, CapitaLand has incorporated modern conveniences such as the use of QR codes and app-based facilities booking. Outfitting buildings with the latest technology is how CapitaLand ensures its buildings in IBP keep up with the times.
To keep pace with the evolving needs of up-and-coming businesses in Jurong, the redevelopment of iQuest@IBP is also in the works. Slated for completion in 2022, iQuest@IBP will be designed with premium specifications – a stellar acknowledgement of the property, its facilities and location. End-of-trip facilities, a gym and a lush sky garden that doubles as an events venue will be housed within the brand-new building.
For day-to-day convenience, ICON@IBP – a CapitaLand business park development with a retail podium – features amenities such as a food court, childcare centre and clinic for tenants.
Commuters have much to look forward to when the JRL is in operation – IBP is on track to be the closest business park to two stations: The existing Jurong East station and the upcoming Jurong Town Hall MRT station.
FROM GAMBIER PLANTATION TO HIGH-TECH BUSINESS PARK
Constant reinvention is the key to remaining relevant in the modern world. Jurong has transformed from a swampland to a commercial hub, and is today abuzz with activity as it develops into a business district.
Correspondingly, IBP has been a symbol of progression. It put down roots as the first business park in Jurong and has been home to notable local and international businesses since. These include multinational corporations like Creative Technology, EnGro Corporation and German Centre Singapore. IBP’s infrastructure and offerings continue to evolve alongside the ever-changing landscape of the business world.
Today, IBP is lauded for its ability to anticipate and support the needs of businesses. IBP’s well-thought-out infrastructure ensures every aspect of a worker’s life is met – from childcare and healthcare to gyms and dining options. With industry giants that support advanced manufacturing embracing IBP, it may be only a matter of time before other companies follow suit.
Article first published on CNA on 6 Oct 2020. This advertorial was produced in partnership with 99.co.
Find out more about what IBP has to offer here.