JOHOR BARU: The campaign banners have been taken down and the ballots counted but for Johor voters, the real test begins now as they wait to see if promises made will deliver improvements.
Residents across the state said the focus must now shift from talk to action, with priorities including flood mitigation, easing the rising cost of living and upgrading public infrastructure.
In Batu Pahat, Sri Medan voter Mohd Ibdisham Mustajab, 32, said tackling the rising cost of living should remain a key priority.
The father of two said household expenses continue to climb, particularly the fees for his children’s tuition classes and extracurricular activities.
“I hope the Jualan Kasih initiative can be expanded because I heard it offers groceries at lower prices. I have not been to any because the operating hours clash with my work schedule,” he added.
In Mersing, Tenggaroh voter Anusha Nair, 24, said flood mitigation should be among the state’s top priorities, as her family of five has endured annual flooding for years.
“Whenever there is prolonged heavy rain, we will have to move our furniture and valuables to the second floor.
“Three years ago, we were away when the flood came.
“We lost furniture, and our car, which was parked at the porch, was also damaged,” said the postgraduate student.
While acknowledging that post-flood assistance such as food, essential supplies and post-flood clean-up efforts were provided, she hoped for more permanent solutions.
“I hope for long-term solutions that can reduce flooding instead of the temporary aid given after every disaster,” she said.
In Johor Baru, Puteri Wangsa voter Tang Gao Han, 30, said the newly-elected assemblyman must deliver on campaign promises to improve roads, public amenities and infrastructure.
The equipment engineer said traffic congestion and deteriorating roads had become daily frustrations for residents in the area.
“The roads in my housing area are narrow and there are potholes. Nearby areas are also heavily congested because of the dense population.
“Hospital Sultan Ismail is always packed and the lack of parking spaces means cars spill onto the roadside, causing even more congestion.
“I hope the new assemblyman gets to work immediately to address these issues,” he said.
In Kluang, Mengkibol voter Sabrina Mustapa, 40, said greater attention should be given to building a new secondary school around Kampung Abdul Rahman Yassin.
She said her children were unable to enrol at the nearby SMK Abdul Rahman Yassin as it had reached full capacity.
“Now, I have to drive them to another school about 20 minutes away,” she said, adding that residents had been hoping for a new school for years.
The Johor polls on July 11 saw Barisan Nasional securing a commanding mandate after winning 48 of the 56 state seats, with Pakatan Harapan capturing the remaining eight seats.
