Mohd Jafni: Challenges taken into account include rising living costs and community safety.
A draft plan worth RM802mil has been submitted for Johor Budget 2026 to boost development across the state’s 16 local councils.
The allocation focuses on infrastructure, flood management, smart city projects and affordable housing.
State housing and local government committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said the budget underscored Johor government’s commitment to delivering balanced growth in both urban and rural areas.
“This budget is not just about figures on paper, but a mandate from the people translated into projects, infrastructure and services that will improve the daily lives of Johoreans.”
Mohd Jafni had tabled the draft budget before Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
He said 82 high-impact projects valued at RM310.9mil had been identified for 2026, covering a wide range of public needs.
Of the total, he said, RM81mil had been set aside for 22 public facility projects, RM53.6mil for 14 urban beautification initiatives and RM18mil for 12 smart city projects.
A further RM115mil will be channelled into infrastructure and road works, he said, describing it as critical investments to address everyday challenges.
“These figures carry great meaning because every project is a direct response to issues on the ground.
“Among the projects are the construction of new multi- purpose halls, upgrading of public markets, stall improvements, covered futsal courts and new youth centres,” he added.
The Bukit Permai assemblyman also said flood mitigation would be prioritised in the budget, with plans for retention ponds, drainage upgrades and other measures to strengthen resilience against heavy rains.
“In addition, we will introduce smart street lighting, instal smart closed-circuit TV (CCTV) camera systems and enhance landscaping works to create safer and more vibrant towns and cities,” he added.
Mohd Jafni said the budget placed strong emphasis on housing under Johor Housing Development Corporation.
He said the state would continue affordable housing programmes such as Johor Affordable Housing (RMMJ), Rumah Kasih Johor (RKJ) and Rumah Prihatin Johor (RPJ), while ensuring better maintenance at People’s Housing Projects (PPR) and low-cost flats.
Mohd Jafni said the draft budget was designed with careful consideration of real challenges, including rising living costs, sustainable urban management, community safety and environmental sustainability.
“The guiding principle of the Mentri Besar’s ground engagement leadership ensures that no rakyat and no district is left behind,” he added.
Mohd Jafni said the budget also aimed to accelerate Johor’s transition into a smart state, with PLANMalaysia Johor spearheading initiatives such as the Johor Urban Observatory (JUO), smart cameras, smart lighting, smart traffic lights and digitalised local council systems.
“These are building blocks that will place Johor on par with developed cities in the region, and they are part of our preparations towards achieving the Maju Johor 2030 vision.
“With cooperation of all stakeholders, the 2026 draft budget will serve as a new driver of inclusive, progressive and sustainable development.
“Our promise is to build a state that is modern, prosperous and above all, people-centric.”
Johor Budget 2026 is expected to be tabled by Onn Hafiz next month.
