MUAR: Johor has distributed a record 460 lion dance costumes to troupes statewide in the largest allocation of its kind there, says state health and environment committee chairman Ling Tian Soon.
He said the allocation benefitted 230 troupes, with each receiving a pair of lions and a drum set.
“The red and blue gear, known as the Johor Lions, was part of the RM17mil allocation announced recently by Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
“This is the first time in the state’s history that such a big number of lions were given out,” he said at a Chinese New Year luncheon attended by Onn Hafiz and 1,100 members of the Chinese community at Chung Hwa High School yesterday.
Ling said it was symbolic to have the handover ceremony in Muar because the district is known for its lion dance performances.
“We hope to see our Johor Lions representing the state everywhere.
“This represents Johor’s unity, inclusivity and stability as well,” said Ling, who is also MCA Youth chief.
The luncheon concluded three Chinese New Year gatherings attended by the mentri besar with the Chinese community in southern, central and northern Johor.
In his speech, Onn Hafiz said the Maharani Energy Gateway project would transform the landscape of Muar, with Tangkak and Pagoh also set to be involved.
He noted that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, had recently launched the mega project, which is expected to create 40,000 job opportunities directly and indirectly.
“I have discussed with the Muar district officer and local council president that we need careful planning to ensure infrastructure in Muar is sufficient.
“Recently, when the project was officiated, many ambassadors from Europe, China and the United States came to Muar but stayed in Melaka.
“We must take this as a challenge. We must develop this district together,” he said.
Onn Hafiz also acknowledged the efforts of Ling and Johor investment, trade, consumer affairs and human resources committee chairman Lee Ting Han.
“The two of them, who represent the Chinese community, are excos who have performed well.
“Ting Han has brought in substantial investments, making Johor the state with the highest approved investments in Malaysia, while Tian Soon has helped to reduce congestion at Hospital Sultanah Aminah and Hospital Sultan Ismail in Johor Baru.
“This is what the people across all races and backgrounds want, an efficient and responsible state government,” he said.
