Special zones can help Johor surpass other states economically: PM

High-impact projects such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and Special Financial Zone (SFZ) in Forest City can help Johor overtake other states economically in the next one to two years, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

“Both JS-SEZ and SFZ will ensure a more rapid growth (for Johor). They are still being formulated but will help in accelerating the economic growth,” he told reporters during the Johor-level Madani Aidilfitri celebration at Padang Begonia, Angsana Johor Bahru Mall yesterday.

Also present were Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin; Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz; Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi; Deputy Works Minister Ahmad Maslan; and former deputy prime minister Musa Hitam.

Earlier in his speech, Anwar said Johor continues to drive growth and record among the best progress and development in Malaysia.

“We are establishing a special economic zone that can develop a close relationship with Singapore and we are setting up a special financial zone in Forest City. These indicate that Johor will record a very rapid growth,” he said.

He noted that Johor also has a low hardcore poverty level with fewer than 2,000 individuals, and this can be resolved in the short term with hardcore poverty being abolished in the state.

In addition, other programmes such as flood mitigation are also prioritised to address problems faced by the people.

“We cannot just strive for big growth. Floods are also sizeable so the flood mitigation programme is given priority. I want the leaders and officials to monitor to ensure that the project is carried out swiftly so that the problem faced by the people is resolved,” he said.

Ensuring people’s well-being

Anwar said leaders in Johor must ensure the state’s administration is free from corruption and the people’s interest is safeguarded.

He further said the development in any state should be in tandem with human development to ensure the people’s well-being.

“Do not focus (just) on buildings, industries and highways, while trivialising people.

“What is the meaning of development if we neglect the poorest people who lack opportunities, whether they are Malay, Chinese, Indian or Orang Asli? They are all Johoreans and must be given a place and afforded the utmost protection,” he added.

Some 5,000 people attended the celebration organised by the Defence Ministry together with the Johor government as host.

Johor is the first of seven states to hold the Aidilfitri Madani 2024 celebration, to be followed by Sabah (April 20), Malacca (April 22), Kelantan (May 2), Kedah (May 4), Penang (May 5) and Terengganu (May 9).

Musa, who celebrated his 90th birthday yesterday, was also honoured at the event.

- Bernama

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