THE Johor government expressed its appreciation to the unity government led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today for always prioritising the state in all national development planning.

Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi said it was proven through several allocations for Johor in Budget 2023 presented by the prime minister, who is also finance minister, including road upgrading and expanding work at major highways in the state.

“Johor hopes to progress in various fields, to be a developed state by 2030, it’s not possible to do this without the help of Datuk Seri (Anwar),” the Umno supreme council member said during his speech at the Simpang Jeram Barisan Nasional (BN) machinery meeting in Muar today, that was attended by Deputy Prime Minister cum BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. 

Onn Hafiz said the federal government’s commitment to Johor was further shown when Works Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi approved RM60 million in allocations for road repairs in the state compared to the RM23 million requested. Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing also announced an allocation of RM2 million for upgrading work for Johor Zoo, the oldest zoo in Malaysia, during his visit yesterday.

He said should Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Nazri Abdul Rahman secure the Simpang Jeram seat, the planned development in the constituency would continue.

“I’m sure he will be the best representative for all races and religions, Muar and Bakri residents know Nazri because he has done so much here,” he said.

The Simpang Jeram by-election is behind held after the incumbent, Salahuddin Ayub died on July 23. – Bernama, August 26, 2023.