JOHOR BARU: Nestled in the heart of the city, Persada Johor International Convention Centre is 60% complete and expected to be ready by October.

As the first convention centre in Johor and south of Kuala Lumpur, the centre owned by Johor Corp aims to boost economic growth in the state.

Puteri Hotels Sdn Bhd managing director John Roozemond said the strategic location at the border of Malaysia and Singapore was ideal for those with business dealings in both countries.

''I must point out that hotel rates are also lower in Johor Baru,'' he said after the preview of the progress of construction at the convention centre recently.

Puteri Hotels acts as the management company of Persada Johor.

Roozemond said statistics provided by the Immigration Department and Tourism Malaysia showed a 24% increase in arrivals into Malaysia for international conventions and exhibitions from 2002 to 2005.

''For years, the international conventions and exhibitions have been centred within Kuala Lumpur itself. Many foreign convention travellers would welcome a change of venue,'' he said.

From left: Johor Land Berhad managing director Shafiqul Hafiz , The Puteri Pacific general manager John Roozemond, Johor Tourism Action Council general manager Abdul Jabar Md Tahir examine the model of the Persada Johor International Convention Centre at the booth at the Puteri Pacific Hotel in Johor Baru. The centre is 60 per cent complete and is expected to be ready in October.

He said the convention centre had the capacity to accommodate up to 6,600 delegates. Its neighbour, The Puteri Pacific Hotel (formerly known as Puteri Pan Pacific Hotel), has 500 rooms.

''The convention centre and the hotel will be linked by a covered bridge as the hotel is situated just next door,'' he said.

Source : The Star 14/3/2006