(Clockwise from top left) Mohd Fared, Ling, Raven Kumar, Mohd Hairi, Khairin Nisa, Zahari, Mohd Jafni, Mohamad Fazli, Aznan and Lee.From education to environmental issues, Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar never fails to champion Johor’s growth and welfare, say state executive councillors.
They said the guidance and advice of Sultan Ibrahim, who is also the King of Malaysia, have been instrumental in shaping policies and driving progress across various sectors in the state.
Johor education and information committee chairman Aznan Tamin said His Majesty takes education seriously, often emphasising the need to improve the education system.
“His Majesty emphasises the importance of enhancing the quality of the education system, which has also led to the introduction of Sekolah Rintis Johor.
“The initiative is in line with His Majesty’s advice in ensuring that the education system in Johor remains at its best.
“This initiative also focuses on providing quality infrastructure and facilities to create a conducive and effective learning environment for children in Johor,” he said.
Aznan also thanked Sultan Ibrahim for contributing 226 smart televisions to schools across the state through the Sultan Ibrahim Foundation.
“This was not just a technological contribution. It was also a testament to His Majesty’s dedication to the development of education,” he added.
Johor Islamic religious affairs committee chairman Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid said Sultan Ibrahim also plays a pivotal role in modernising mosques and suraus across the state.
“His Majesty decreed that mosques be enhanced with the active participation of all community members, including the younger generation.
“His Majesty also decreed that mosques and suraus in Johor be modernised, which is why we are implementing the initiative to install free Wi-Fi at mosques and suraus throughout the state,” he said, adding that the initiative is being carried out in stages.
He said His Majesty’s firm yet encouraging words give him the strength to fulfil his duties.
Johor unity, heritage and culture committee chairman K. Raven Kumar said His Majesty plays a vital role in fostering and maintaining unity in the state.
Aerial view of the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine complex in Johor Baru. — THOMAS YONG/The Star
“Sultan Ibrahim is someone who takes unity very seriously, always emphasising the importance of respecting each other’s race and religion.
“His Majesty is not afraid to speak his mind when seeing something amiss that could disrupt peace and unity among his subjects. Additionally, His Majesty frequently attends festivals and events of people from all races and cultures, setting a positive example for Johoreans,” he said.
Johor investment, trade, consumer affairs and human resources committee chairman Lee Ting Han described Sultan Ibrahim as a wise leader with extensive experience and knowledge in various fields.
“His Majesty always has interesting insights to share with us and can perceive things that others may not be able to see.
“His Majesty’s perspective is invaluable to us, and we are privileged to have a Ruler who is both knowledgeable and experienced,” he said.
According to Johor housing and local government committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor, Sultan Ibrahim’s insight and advice have been invaluable, particularly for the upgrading of the Johor Zoo.
“His Majesty highlighted the importance of safeguarding animal welfare while maintaining the zoo as an educational and recreational hub for the community.
“These insights have served as a key guide in our efforts to improve the management and facilities of the zoo. What made it even more special was His Majesty’s gracious gift of several animals from the Johor Palace to the Johor Zoo,” he noted.
Johor youth, sports, entrepreneur development and cooperatives committee chairman Mohd Hairi Mad Shah said His Majesty always reminds state leaders of their duty to serve the people.
“His Majesty keeps a close eye on the development of the state, not just in terms of infrastructure and economy, but also in terms of sports and entrepreneurship.
“His Majesty always reminds us to prioritise the people’s needs above all else,” he said.
Johor health and unity committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said Sultan Ibrahim advocates for the importance of preserving and protecting the environment.
“His Majesty often uses social media to highlight environmental issues, which has really helped to raise awareness among the public,” he said, adding that he is very grateful to His Majesty.
Ling said Sultan Ibrahim has also pushed for better medical facilities in Johor, including the upgrading of busy hospitals such as Sultanah Aminah Hospital.
Johor agriculture, agro-based industry and rural committee chairman Datuk Zahari Sarip said Sultan Ibrahim has never neglected development in rural areas.
“His Majesty wants all Johoreans to benefit from the state’s development and not just those living in the cities.
“Sultan Ibrahim always reminds us about this whenever we introduce any new initiatives and programmes,” he said.
Johor women’s family and community development committee chairman Khairin-Nisa Ismail said Sultan Ibrahim understands the needs of Johoreans well.
“Sultan Ibrahim takes the welfare of the rakyat very seriously, as we can see from the countless charitable acts His Majesty has done for the people. Sultan Ibrahim has always reminded me to be hands-on and ensure that the agencies under my charge do everything they can to help the people,” she added.
Johor works, transportation and infrastructure committee chairman Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh said Sultan Ibrahim has always been committed to ensuring that development projects benefit the people and the state.
“His Majesty places great importance on the development of Johor and continuously monitors the state’s rapid progress.
“To realise the vision of Johor Maju 2030, His Majesty consistently provides guidance to ensure that the state government works hard for the people,” he said.
