ISKANDAR PUTERI: A Johor assemblyman wants the government to ensure that the two economic initiatives - the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and the Special Financial Zone (SFZ) - are not benefiting only one party.
Datuk Pandak Ahmad (BN-Kota Iskandar) said in his constituency, where the Forest City SFZ was located, there are 12 traditional fishing villages.
"What assurance can the government give to the fishermen who fish near the Second Link? As it is, they are facing difficulties when they were chased away by Singapore coast guards for alleged intrusion while fishing to earn their livelihood.
"Do not let the special economic (initiatives) be special to only one party," he told the state legislative assembly sitting at Kota Iskandar here on Saturday (May 12).
He was referring to a dispute between local fishermen and Singapore Police Coast Guard officers in October 2022 near the Second Link bridge near here, which connected Johor and the republic.
The group of fishermen claimed they were chased away by the Singaporean authorities while setting up shrimp nets.
Fishermen in Pontian and other areas would also feel insecure if no proper assurance were given by the government as it affected their livelihood, added Pandak.
He also raised concerns that the JS-SEZ and SFZ would cause the price of properties to skyrocket and real estate speculation.
"The locals will not be able to afford their own properties if this happens. Do ensure that the initiatives are beneficial to all, and are not just one-sided," he added.
