BATU PAHAT: The signing of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) agreement marks a pivotal moment in Johor's economic transformation, said Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
He added that the initiative is set to revolutionise the state's economic landscape by attracting global investment.
"This year is a golden opportunity for Johor; the JS-SEZ agreement will propel us forward, attracting global investments to our state.
"To capitalise on this, the state government has actively engaged with international investors.
"We have extended our efforts beyond Singapore to countries like China, South Korea, Japan, the UAE, and Qatar, where we received overwhelming confidence from potential investors," he said.
He made these remarks during a speech at the Chinese New Year Dinner held at the Che Eng Khor Moral Uplifting Society on Sunday night (January 12).
Onn Hafiz also called on Bangsa Johor to unite and prepare for incoming opportunities in business, employment, education, and the future of Johor’s younger generations.
He ended his speech by saying that all businesses will be made easy during the Year of the Snake, which received applause from the audience.
Echoing these sentiments, Johor health and environment committee chairman Ling Tian Soon reiterated the administration’s commitment to making Johor a developed state by 2030.
"This is a critical period for us to realise our vision. Our focus is solely on Johor’s development; issues like politics and racial division have no place here," he said.
The state’s administration, under Onn Hafiz’s leadership, has laid out a clear roadmap for progress, he added.
"This includes not only infrastructure development but also advancements in technology and human capital," he said.
He added that in line with the vision "No one will be left behind," the Johor government has prioritised healthcare.
The state has allocated over RM10mil this year to enhance its healthcare system.
"Major developments in the healthcare sector include the upcoming Hospital Pasir Gudang and the approval of the new Sultanah Aminah Hospital (HSA) 2 by the federal government.
"Additionally, private hospital groups have expressed interest in investing in Johor, a move welcomed by the state. Their presence will bolster medical services and position Johor as a hub for medical tourism," Ling explained.
The dinner was also attended by MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, former MCA president Tan Sri Dr Chua Soi Lek, and former Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Chua Tee Yong.
Also present were Sultanah Fatimah Foundation (YSF) chairman Mejar Cina Datuk David Wong Khong Soon, Johor investment, trade, consumer affairs, and human resources committee chairman Lee Ting Han, and Johor Islamic religious affairs committee chairman Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid.
