Caretaker Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has raised doubts over the opposition’s preparedness to form a government, pointing out that no menteri besar candidate has been announced ahead of the upcoming state election.
He said political credibility should be assessed based on leadership capability and governance experience, rather than campaign rhetoric alone, arguing that voters deserve clarity on who would lead the state.
“What can the opposition offer to the people of Johor? They don’t even have a menteri besar candidate,” he said, framing the election as a contest of administrative readiness rather than political branding.
Onn Hafiz said his administration’s performance is continuously assessed through multiple feedback channels, including the Johor palace, public sentiment, and direct engagement with the rakyat on the ground.
He added that social media input, while considered, can often be distorted by fake accounts and misinformation, making face-to-face interaction with voters more reliable and important.
“That is why our BN-led state representatives go down to the ground. We cannot rely solely on online voices,” he said.
The Johor BN chairman also described the state government’s approach as one of continuous delivery, stressing that governance does not operate on fixed political timelines.
“We don’t wait for 100 days. Every day is Day 100,” he said, adding that Johor has built strong momentum over the past four years of administration.
He said the state’s long-term development remains anchored under the Maju Johor 2030 agenda, which focuses on ensuring economic growth translates into real benefits for the people.
“Numbers are not enough. What matters is how it trickles down to the rakyat,” he said, highlighting ongoing welfare and development initiatives.
On political conduct, Onn Hafiz acknowledged tensions between rival political blocs but said he had received reminders from the Johor palace to maintain decorum throughout the campaign period.
“Tuanku and Tunku Mahkota Ismail reminded me — Johor must remain Johor. We must uphold our manners and conduct,” he said.
He stressed that political differences should not descend into insults or personal attacks, describing Johor’s political culture as one that values restraint and professionalism.
“There must be no shouting matches, no insults, no character assassination. This is not a zoo,” he said.
On candidate selection, he confirmed that BN will prioritise winnability and service record over age or background, with final decisions to be made by the party leadership.
Despite increasing political competition, Onn Hafiz said he remains confident that Johor voters will continue to prioritise stability and delivery in their decision-making.
“We have done our best. Now it is for the people to decide,” he added.
Johor is scheduled to go to the polls on July 11, with nomination day set for June 27 and early voting on July 7.
