2025-06-05T22:00:00Z

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JOHOR BAHRU, Malaysia: For Wafa Aina Wahid, a dedicated insurance executive, her daily commute from her hometown of Kluang to Johor Bahru was often a grueling journey that stretched to almost two hours. This lengthy trek was compounded by the fact that her husband was located even further away, working in Singapore and renting an apartment there. Their marriage, much like that of many couples who face geographic separation due to work, was beginning to feel the strains of long-distance living.

Recently, however, Wafa and her husband made a significant decision that would not only drastically reduce her commuting time but also allow them to live together once again. They signed a lease for a spacious three-room apartment in Forest City, a monumental housing project estimated at US$100 billion, located at the southern tip of Johor, right across the strait from Singapore. The choice to move was more than just a practical one; it was a deeply emotional step toward reuniting their lives.

“I am so excited to move,” Wafa, 27, expressed with palpable joy. “Finally, I’m not going to do a long-distance relationship with my husband. He can commute daily from here.” This statement speaks volumes about the challenges many couples face when distance separates them, highlighting the importance of proximity in maintaining a healthy relationship.

The couple’s decision was influenced not only by the desire for convenience and emotional closeness but also by the appealing rental market within Forest City. This mega-development promises not only luxurious living spaces but also modern amenities, making it an attractive option for those seeking a vibrant community that connects easily to both Malaysia and Singapore. With its strategic location, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds: the tranquility of life in Malaysia coupled with the bustling urban environment of Singapore just a short commute away.

As the couple prepares for this new chapter in their lives, their story reflects a growing trend among professionals in Southeast Asia who are increasingly opting for housing solutions that bridge the gap created by demanding work schedules and the high cost of living in major urban centers. The rise of such mega-projects as Forest City underscores the evolving nature of living arrangements and commuter patterns in the region, as more individuals and families seek solutions that enhance their quality of life while reducing the burdens of travel and separation.