Revenue from development applications surged by 262%, thanks to infrastructure projects like the RTS Link. — Filepic
Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) has seen a 262% increase in non-tax revenue this year following a surge in development applications.
Johor Baru mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad said the applications were particularly high for development projects driven by the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link.
“As of October, MBJB collected RM596.6mil in revenue, which is higher than the initial RM570mil targeted under Budget 2025.
“This achievement was driven by a 262% increase in non-tax revenue collection, spurred by the rise in development applications.
“The applications have been boosted by the progress of transportation infrastructure, such as the RTS Link,” he said in his speech during the MBJB full board meeting, where he also presented its Budget 2026.
“This is the highest budget so far, with estimated revenue of RM613mil.
“Some RM360.3mil has been allocated for operating expenditure and RM252.6mil for development expenditure,” he said.
Mohd Haffiz added that the development expenditure included some RM55.7mil for road maintenance and upgrades, including improvements to the road irrigation system.
“We will also be allocating RM49mil for flood mitigation projects and RM38mil to beautify the city.
“RM23.3mil will also be allocated to improve the city’s facilities for the tourism sector, and RM22.8mil to upgrade public facilities,” he said.
The mayor added that RM17.6mil would be set aside to improve sports facilities and RM12.4mil for street lamps and traffic lights. — By VENESA DEVI
