JOHOR BARU: Barisan Nasional has unveiled a 63-point manifesto ahead of Nomination Day for the Johor election, focusing on maintaining stability and continuing the state’s development momentum.
Caretaker Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the manifesto, themed "Maju Johor, Kestabilan Dikekalkan, Kemajuan Diteruskan", was drawn from the state government’s achievements over the past four years.
He highlighted 11 initiatives offered by the party, which include strengthening Bantuan Kasih Johor assistance through a more targeted approach, continuing housing assistance for youths, creating job opportunities, and empowering small and medium enterprises (SME).
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"We aim to create 200,000 new and quality jobs, including those with premium salaries for Johoreans through quality investments, high-technology industries and the expansion of strategic economic sectors across the state.
"Economic growth must translate into jobs that provide income, skills and a better future for the people of Johor," he said in a statement on Friday (June 26).
For housing, the Johor Barisan chairman pledged a RM100mil fund to help low-income families build subsidised homes on their own land, including second-generation Felda lots.
He also promised to continue housing assistance programmes, including the first home assistance, move-in assistance and rental assistance schemes.
“This includes a rental deposit scheme to help youths aged below 35 who face difficulties with upfront rental costs," he added.
Onn Hafiz said the manifesto is built around six main pillars covering governance, economic development, social safety nets, infrastructure and basic needs, security, cleanliness and environmental sustainability, as well as youth development.
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"As such, we want to waive business licence fees for the first year for hawkers and petty traders, while increasing its interest-free microfinancing fund by RM100mil through collaboration with financial institutions.
"SMEs would also be strengthened through business matching programmes, vendor development, capability training and digitalisation efforts to allow local businesses to benefit from major investments entering Johor," he said.
The manifesto also placed emphasis on education, with Barisan pledging to strengthen the Johor Youth Education Fund with RM100mil to widen access to higher education, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), professional certifications and future skills training.
Onn Hafiz said Barisan would continue the RM200 Johor student incentive programme for those pursuing studies at public universities, polytechnics and community colleges.
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"Johor is not starting from zero. The foundation for development and stability has been built over the past four years.
"Now, the people have a choice whether to continue the momentum of progress that is already taking place or allow it to stop halfway," Onn Hafiz added.
Barisan will contest all 56 seats in Johor. It won 40 seats in the 2022 state election, securing a two-thirds majority.
Polling day has been set for July 11, with nominations on Saturday (June 27). Early voting is scheduled for July 7.
