JOHOR BARU: Many of the promises outlined in Pakatan Harapan’s election manifesto have already been implemented by the Barisan Nasional-led Johor government, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Barisan chairman said he had reviewed Pakatan’s manifesto and found little that could be considered a game-changer for voters.
“We respect their manifesto, but many of their plans have already been carried out by the Barisan government during the previous term,” he said after attending an event at a public housing scheme in Larkin yesterday.
Responding to Pakatan’s frequent references to its achievements in Selangor, Ahmad Zahid said the comparison was not an accurate one.
“Johor is already ahead in terms of foreign direct investment, domestic direct investment and state revenue collection,” said Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister.
He also urged all parties contesting in the state election to focus on presenting their candidates and policies to voters rather than raising issues unrelated to Johor.
“Yes, it is true that we are together in Putrajaya, but here in Johor, we are in a different ring. There is no need to raise issues that have nothing to do with the state.
“Instead, parties should focus on promoting their candidates as the best choice for the people.”
Ahmad Zahid expressed confidence that voters would give Barisan a stronger mandate, enabling caretaker Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi to introduce more transformative initiatives for Johor.
He said Barisan’s manifesto was based on realistic and achievable targets rather than promises made merely for political appeal.
“Based on our previous state election manifesto, we have fulfilled almost 90% of our pledges. This time, we hope to achieve between 95% and 100%.
“Our manifesto is also inclusive of all races.”
He added that a mandate exceeding a two-thirds majority would provide greater political stability and help attract more domestic and foreign investment to the state.
Earlier, Ahmad Zahid and Onn Hafiz visited the Bangsa Johor Kindergarten in Larkin, one of four facilities developed with an allocation of RM3.6mil.
Onn Hafiz urged voters to remain cautious and not be swayed by what he described as unrealistic promises from the opposition.
