Johor MB disputes PM's remarks on JS-SEZ Master Plan, calls them inaccurate

Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has publicly stated that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's remarks about the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) Master Plan are inaccurate and could confuse the public and investors. Ghazi, who also chairs Johor's Barisan Nasional coalition, emphasized the importance of factual accuracy in statements made by national leaders.

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I am aware I am not of Prime Minister's caliber. However, with full respect, I believe that when someone holds the position of the nation's number one leader, every statement made must be based on accurate facts.

"I am aware I am not of Prime Minister's caliber. However, with full respect, I believe that when someone holds the position of the nation's number one leader, every statement made must be based on accurate facts," Ghazi said in a statement. He found it "rather inappropriate" for the Prime Minister to present an inaccurate picture of the JS-SEZ Master Plan, which he described as a Malaysian government document.

Ghazi clarified that the master plan does not require approval from the Singaporean government, but rather a consultation process and feedback, which has already been concluded. "What remains is its launch by the ministry or at an event decided by the Malaysian Federal Government," he added. He refuted the Prime Minister's suggestion that the plan needed approval at a 'Leaders' Retreat' session and the signatures of both Prime Ministers, calling it inaccurate and misleading.

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It is rather inappropriate for the Prime Minister to present an inaccurate picture of the JS-SEZ Master Plan. The fact is, the JS-SEZ Master Plan is a Malaysian Government document. It does not require the approval of the Singapore Government, but rather a consultation process and feedback from Singapore, and that process has been completed.

The Johor leader stressed that his intention was not to criticize but to ensure that strategic initiatives benefiting Johor are implemented promptly and to provide certainty to investors. "Many investors are asking and awaiting the launch of this master plan. It will give investors confidence to continue investing in the JS-SEZ, the benefits of which will also be felt by the Central Government for the good of the people of Johor and Malaysia," he stated. Ghazi concluded by expressing concern that inaccurate statements from a national leader could negatively impact not only Malaysians and Johor residents but also current and potential investors in the JS-SEZ.

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Many investors are asking and awaiting the launch of this master plan. It will give investors confidence to continue investing in the JS-SEZ, the benefits of which will also be felt by the Central Government for the good of the people of Johor and Malaysia.