Walker Corp walks the talk.

Byline: Chris Prasad

IF there's any indication that Johor is transforming into the growth region the nation is pinning its hopes on, it's the fact that the state has proven its mettle by drawing international interest, investment and involvement.

For example, it has lured Australian developer Walker Corp to its shores, the group behind prominent waterfront developments such as King Street Wharf in Sydney, Hope Island Resort in the Gold Coast, Rhodes Waterside as well as the award-winning The Wharf at Woolloomooloo, Balmain Cove in Sydney, and Main Drive Kew in Melbourne.

Along with other projects in much vaunted locales around the world under its belt, why did it choose Johor as its first foray into Asia? According to Walker Corp executive chairman and founder Lang Walker, Johor Baru piqued his interest during his visit in the late 1990s when he saw tremendous potential in its proximity to Singapore, especially its extensive but untouched waterfront opportunities.

"Being close to Singapore means we can …