Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia (second right) checking on the upgrades of Taman Plentong Utama flats. — Photo courtesy of the FB page of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.
MORE than RM2.7mil has been allocated for upgrading works at Taman Plentong Utama flats in Masai under the Bangsa Johor Bahagia (BJB) 2.0 project spearheaded by Yayasan Raja Zarith Sofiah Negeri Johor (YRZSNJ).
State housing and local government committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said the allocation comprised RM1.21mil from Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) and RM1.55mil from Johor Housing Development Corporation (PKPJ).
He said the initiative was in line with the royal aspirations of Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, who visited the site to check on the project’s progress.
The project doubles as a pilot model in Johor.
“The flats comprise six blocks without lifts and house more than 1,900 residents across 480 units.
“The comprehensive upgrades involve infrastructure for social well-being and community development,” said Mohd Jafni.
“Ongoing works include the installation of LED lights, improvement of rubbish collection areas, introduction of ‘Kitar Pintar’ smart recycling machines, creation of green spaces and children’s playgrounds as well as construction of a hall.”
He added BJB 2.0 also focused on community transformation through programmes such as “Kelab Suka Belajar”, “Jiranita Sukses” and “Komuniti Sihat”, as well as the development of a digital community centre and artificial intelligence workshop in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).
“This is proof of the state government’s commitment under the leadership of Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi that public housing is not just about bricks and mortar, but also about dignity,” said the Bukit Permai assemblyman.
During a recent visit, Her Majesty launched the “Kelab Suka Belajar” initiative and mingled with both children and flat residents.
The event also saw the presentation of a RM1mil cheque from the Johor government to YRZSNJ for BJB 2.0 and a RM10,000 contribution to two secondary schools under the Johor Stars Go Global programme.
Launched in 2019, BJB is an initiative aimed at uplifting the living standards of Johor citizens, particularly those of lower-income communities or living in public housing.
The programme’s holistic approach covers infrastructure improvements, educational support, economic empowerment and environmental conservation to ensure long-term benefits for residents.
It was first mooted by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and Raja Zarith Sofiah, as part of their vision to create safer, cleaner and more harmonious neighbourhoods.
Under the first phase, several housing projects in Johor were upgraded with better lighting, repaired walkways, improved waste management methods and upgraded community halls.
BJB 2.0 builds upon these achievements by integrating modern elements such as smart recycling, digital learning spaces and health-oriented programmes to cater to evolving community needs.
Mohd Jafni said the Taman Plentong Utama project would serve as a model for similar initiatives in other parts of the state.
“By combining physical upgrades with programmes that develop skills, knowledge and community spirit, we are not just renovating buildings – we are renewing lives,” he said.
The project is expected to be completed in stages over the coming months, with continuous engagement between the implementing agencies, foundation and residents to ensure its success.
