JLand and Zaha Hadid Architects build Discovery City in Malaysia

The 582-acre Discovery City masterplan will be Zaha Hadid Architects’ first project in Malaysia.

Discovery City will incorporate innovations in smart city technologies and a consistent commitment to minimising environmental impact.

Discovery City focuses on circular economy and promotes a symbiotic relationship between built and natural environment.

Johor Corporation (JCorp) Wholly-owned investment company JLand Group Sdn Bhd (JLG) has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) to develop the 582-acre mixed-use precinct Discovery City within Ibrahim Technopolis (IBTEC), the 7,290-acre development in Johor, Malaysia.

IBTEC is intended to be a model of environmentally conscious design that blends seamlessly into the region’s distinctive landscapes. It is planned as a large circular city within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). With a gross development value of RM27 billion, IBTEC is a key destination for strategic expansion in Southern Malaysia.

ZHA is leading the design of Discovery City and is also designing the centrepiece of the masterplan – ZHA’s RM269 million Cultural Centre will be the firm’s first building in Malaysia. HIJJAS Architects and Planners is the local project architect, while AJM-Planning and Urban Design Group Sdn Bhd (APUDG) is the local master planner and principal applicant (PSP) for Discovery City’s masterplan.

ZHA’s design approach for Discovery City will prioritize integration with Johor’s natural environment and reflect IBTEC’s vision of a circular city where innovation thrives. True to this vision, ZHA will create the framework for Discovery City’s environmentally sustainable architecture, along with innovations in smart city technologies and an unwavering commitment to minimizing environmental impact. By promoting the circular economy and fostering a symbiotic relationship between the built and natural environments, Discovery City aims to set a new benchmark for sustainable development in Malaysia.

Leveraging ZHA’s advanced design and construction technologies, Discovery City will primarily use locally sourced and recycled materials and integrate renewable energy generation and rainwater harvesting to reduce energy and water consumption. Discovery City will also feature ZHA’s first building in Malaysia, showcasing their vision of 21st century architecture and sustainable design.

Discovery City adheres to local and international standards, including the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) Low Carbon Cities Framework (LCCF) and the international Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, demonstrating IBTEC’s commitment to environmentally sustainable development.

Datuk Sr. Akmal AhmadVice Chairman of JLand Groupsaid: “This partnership with ZHA reflects our commitment to regional and international collaboration. IBTEC is designed to be a state-of-the-art hub that is strategically located and equipped with smart infrastructure to drive innovation while ensuring sustainable growth for the future. With this advanced development, we hope to strengthen IBTEC’s presence in the region as an investment location and key component within the multi-billion ringgit JS-SEZ, create jobs for the local community and cement JLG’s position as a comprehensive property developer.”

Gianluca RacanaDirector at Zaha Hadid Architectssaid: “Discovery City will be our first project in the Malaysian architectural landscape and we are honoured to be given this opportunity to explore how architecture can enhance its natural context and create a synergy between the built and natural environments. With our first project in Malaysia, we are committed to creating an exceptional development that both inspires and respects its surroundings.”

The detailed design of Discovery City is scheduled to be published in 2025.

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Cover photo: Proposed interior concept for office building in Discovery City (ZHA)