MB: Johor govt plans to turn state into economic powerhouse

PASIR GUDANG: The Johor government has a long-term plan for the state and an aspiration to make it the new economic powerhouse in Malaysia, said Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. 

The Mentri Besar said mega projects such as the Rapid Transit System, Gemas-Johor Baru double tracking system, Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail and the Refinery and Petrochemical Integrated Development project in Pengerang would set Johor above others once completed.

“More importantly, these mega projects - together with other developments taking place here - will generate 250,000 employment opportunities in the state,” he said in his speech before officiating SMK Dato’ Penggawa Timur’s 44th Parent-Teacher Association meeting here on Sunday (Jan 21).

Mohamed Khaled also blasted certain parties for questioning the state government’s efforts in attracting foreign investments.

“Without these investments, the state government cannot develop Johor’s economy. We can see how vibrant are the developments here,” he said.  

Mohamed Khaled added that unlike Barisan Nasional, the Opposition does not have any concrete plans for Johor.  

He said that the state government has been proactive in addressing the high cost of living, especially in urban areas, through building affordable homes and other initiatives.

“We have built 27% of affordable homes in Johor so far with a price range of between RM40,000 and RM150,000, which is the cheapest in Malaysia,” he said. 

Mohamed Khaled said it was the responsibility of the Barisan-led state government to ensure that the people is able to benefit from development. 

“It is our aspiration to make Johor a developed state and its rakyat enjoy prosperous lives,” he added.