Development In Johor Needs To Be Balanced - Anwar

JOHOR BAHRU, July 4 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Johor needed development that was more balanced between rural areas, villages and the urban poor, as well as continued implementation of high-impact projects.

He said that the state’s development should not only be focused on mega projects, but needed to be translated through the availability of basic amenities that directly benefit the people such as affordable housing, schools, stalls, community halls and other public facilities.

“There is a big difference in terms of development between Johor Bahru, Ulu Kempas, for instance Ulu Tebrau. That’s just half an hour’s (distance).

“There’s no need for a 30-storey building in Ulu Tebrau, it’s not necessary. But take care of schools, make sure there are halls and mosques,” he said during his speech at the Kita Geng MADANI Johor: Malam Anak Muda Kempas programme here tonight.

Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Kempas state seat, Faezuddin Puad and PKR Youth chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim were present at the event.

Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said efforts to achieve more balanced development require the support of the people in electing leaders who are courageous, decisive and capable of representing their voices and aspirations.

“We need to elect young leaders and candidates who carry the message and aspirations of the people. Only in this way can we properly shape the future of Johor,” he said.

Anwar also shared his aspiration of seeing Malaysia become a strong and respected nation before he concludes his tenure as Prime Minister.

“I want Malaysia to be a strong nation, a great country, and for its people to be well looked after,” he said.

Touching on the 16th Johor state election, Anwar reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring that the electoral process would be conducted in a free and fair manner.

He stressed that the government would never interfere in the affairs of the Election Commission.

“This is what we must safeguard so that our country continues to be respected and succeeds as a great nation,” he said.

A total of 172 candidates are contesting 56 seats this election, with polling set for July 11 and early voting scheduled for July 7.

For the latest updates on the 16th Johor State Election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/johor.

--  BERNAMA