Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim commits to maximum federal support for Johor’s development, highlighting major healthcare and infrastructure investments
PONTIAN: The Federal Government will continue to assist the Johor state government in improving its economic standing, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, stated that federal spending on Johor is among the highest in the country. This includes allocations for highway projects and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
He emphasised that every project implemented must deliver significant benefits to the people. “Congratulations to the Johor state government for its close cooperation (with the Federal Government). We will provide maximum support to uplift Johor’s economic position,” he said.
He was speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the additional building of Pontian Hospital and the ‘Karnival Rakyat MADANI’. Also present were Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Anwar revealed that 23 healthcare facility projects are being implemented by the Health Ministry in Johor. The total cost for these projects is RM2.625 billion.
“People can assess that major projects are indeed important… whether in energy transition, electronics, or transformation, including digital technology,” he said. He added that ultimately, the welfare of the child at home and the poor in the villages remains paramount.
The prime minister urged all parties to prioritise transparency, integrity and effectiveness in administration. This is to ensure that approved funds fully benefit the people.
“Johor has extraordinary potential, and with proper management, the state can achieve more significant progress,” he stated. He stressed the need to ensure the people continue to receive attention and support.
Addressing Johor’s revenue claims raised earlier by Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz, Anwar said proper negotiations must be carried out. “So if that is the case, then negotiate properly. What is important is whether the people fully receive the benefits,” he said.
He noted that it is a technical matter whether money comes from the state or federal government. “What matters is that the money reaches the people… that is what is important to me,” Anwar concluded.
The Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, had previously called for 25% of Johor’s income tax revenue to be returned to the state. This call followed several project delays in the state, including the opening of Pasir Gudang Hospital.
The Sun Malaysia
