Johor passes RM1.73b budget for 2023, new opposition leader chosen

The Johor state legislative assembly today passed an RM1.73 billion budget for 2023.

The budget was passed by a majority vote through a show of hands.

While some news reported it as a unanimous outcome, several Pakatan Harapan lawmakers confirmed with Malaysiakini that they did not raise theirs.

Although Harapan has formed a government with BN at the federal level, including Perak and Pahang, BN and Harapan lawmakers sit on opposite benches at the Johor legislative assembly.

The state budget will have a surplus of RM2.44 million, with a projected revenue of RM1.734 billion as against RM1.731 billion in expenses.

Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the Johor economy has been reinvigorated after suffering from the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Overall, I'd like to say that Johor's economy is booming again in this phase of post-Covid-19 economic recovery," he said.

Meanwhile, the Johor opposition has elected Stulang assemblyperson Andrew Chen Kah Eng as their new leader, replacing Perling assemblyperson Liew Chin Tong.

Liew relinquished the post after he became deputy international trade and industry minister.

Chen's appointment was announced by Johor Harapan leader, Salahuddin Ayub.

BN controls 40 of the 56 seats in the Johor state assembly. Harapan has 12 seats followed by Perikatan Nasional (3) and Muda (1).

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