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MALAYSIA'S proposal to build a bridge to replace the Causeway is not an issue of immediate concern to investors in Johor.

According to the Johor State Investment Centre, investors are more concerned about the progress of on-going projects to improve the road system in the state.

Since the centre was set up in August last year, it has also received many inquiries from investors about the Johor government's plans to expand air and sea ports in the state.

'The bridge project is not impacting on investors now,' said the centre's senior manager, Mr Mohamed Basir Mohamed Sali.

But he also made it clear that the proposed bridge would help to speed up the flow of traffic moving in and out of Johor and Singapore.

He also cited other positive aspects of the bridge:

If the Causeway is demolished, water will flow freely in the Straits of Johor and clear the rubbish polluting the Johor side.

The waterfront along the Johor side can then be developed into a new suburb with retail outlets, convention centres and a beautiful landscape.

The bridge should not be viewed purely as a new link for more Singaporeans to shop in Johor, Mr Mohamed Basir said.

'We have enough Singaporeans shopping in Johor,' he said. 'The bridge project is linked to the relocation of our Customs, Immigration and Quarantine complex.

'Johor also wants to build a new suburb along our waterfront. When Singaporeans are aware of all this, they will see the bridge as a mutually beneficial project.'