JOHOR BARU: Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi is expected to retain much of his previous state executive council (exco) line-up to ensure continuity in implementing the Maju Johor 2030 agenda, say political analysts.
Dr Md Akbal Abdullah said previous exco members who had done well in the previous term were likely to stay.
He, however, expects to see at least one new appointment, particularly among female representatives, following the departure of Khairin Nisa Ismail, previously women, family and community development committee chairman who did not defend her Serom seat.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia political analyst Dr Mazlan Ali said Barisan Nasional’s improved performance, with 48 of the 56 state seats compared with 40 previously, would give Onn Hafiz a stronger mandate to form a balanced administration.
He noted that the election results also saw MCA winning eight seats and MIC securing four, which should be taken into consideration when forming the new state executive council.
“MCA and MIC now have stronger representation in the state assembly, so their voices should also be reflected in the new administration alongside Umno to ensure a more comprehensive government,” he said.
Mazlan said that while the exco structure was expected to remain largely intact, the state government could review or expand existing portfolios to better address priorities outlined in Barisan’s election manifesto.
He said the new administration should focus on delivering three key commitments in the manifesto: empowering youths and students, improving the welfare of the B40 group and accelerating urban development.
“The government must fulfil its promise to provide affordable housing because this was one of the manifesto’s core commitments. Delivering these projects should be regarded as an important KPI,” he said. He also urged the state government to improve infrastructure and public transport in urban areas.
The swearing-in ceremony for the new exco line-up is expected to take place tomorrow at Istana Bukit Serene.
Separately, state MIC chairman K. Raven Kumar said the appointment of exco members was at the discretion of Onn Hafiz as Mentri Besar. The Kemelah assemblyman said he would be willing to serve again in the exco if given the opportunity.
“If I am reappointed, I will do my best. If not, I will offer guidance to whoever is appointed,” he said.
Raven Kumar was the state unity, heritage and culture committee chairman in the previous term.
