Onn Hafiz (right) checking out the merchandise under the Visit Johor 2026 X Kluang Rail Coffee collaboration at the opening of the shop in Taman Kota Masai. Looking on is Kluang Rail Coffee director Lim Jit Chen (second from right). — THOMAS YONG/The Star
JOHOR must continue strengthening social ties and remain rooted in its identity as it advances towards its goal of a developed state by 2030.
Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said that while economic growth and development were accelerating across the state, Johoreans must not forget their origins, history and shared values as one family and one Bangsa Johor.
“Many developed nations grow economically and their people become more prosperous, but one crisis they face is the weakening of community bonds.
“That is something I am very mindful of. Development must go hand in hand with unity and strong social ties among the people,” he said.
He made the remarks while launching Kluang Rail Coffee’s 10th store and merchandise under the Visit Johor 2026 X Kluang Rail Coffee collaboration in Taman Kota Masai, Pasir Gudang.
The Mentri Besar said the shop’s opening marked the first tourism-related programme held in conjunction with the Visit Johor 2026 campaign.
“This is the first programme we are doing in anticipation of Visit Johor 2026. And on behalf of the state government, we pray for your success and hope the business continues to flourish.”
Touching on Johor’s rapid development, Onn Hafiz said the state’s economy was becoming increasingly vibrant with new buildings, hotels and tourism projects underway.
“Apart from the Sheraton Hotel, I understand another hotel, Novotel Johor Baru City Centre, is also being developed.
“There is a lot of progress happening in the state,” he said.
“This includes the upcoming Muzium Tokoh development in Johor Baru, which is expected to be completed early next year.”
Onn Hafiz said the project was set to become an iconic tourism destination for both locals and foreigners.
“As Johor grows, all of us must work together as one united strength, one family and one Bangsa Johor.
“We must never forget where we came from.
“This is something constantly emphasised by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, that Malays, Chinese and Indians are one Bangsa Johor,” he said.
He also urged tourism industry players to uphold these values, calling them state ambassadors.
