Johor requires leaders who are intelligent, decisive and courageous enough to make tough decisions in order to protect the state’s interests and ensure its development agenda remains on track, according to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking at the Pakatan Harapan (PH) public rally titled “Keadilan Untuk Bangsa Johor” in Bukit Bakri on Monday night, Anwar stressed that strong leadership is essential for a state with immense economic potential and strategic importance like Johor.
The Prime Minister said state leaders must have a clear vision and the ability to chart the right direction for Johor, particularly as the state continues to attract investment and position itself as one of Malaysia’s key economic drivers.
Drawing parallels with national leadership, Anwar said leaders must be firm in their principles while maintaining strong international relationships.
“We want leaders in the state who are firm, just as the Prime Minister must be. We can be friends with world leaders such as Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, but we must always safeguard our own policies and national interests,” he said.
Anwar added that Malaysia remains committed to maintaining friendly relations with all nations while retaining the freedom to voice its views on global issues. He pointed to the situation in Gaza as an example, saying Malaysia would continue to speak out when it believes something is wrong.
“We speak up not for personal reasons, but because we represent the voice and interests of the Malaysian people,” he told the crowd.
The Prime Minister said the people of Johor have every right to choose their own leaders, but emphasised that those entrusted with leading the state must possess the ability to negotiate, make informed decisions and champion Johor’s priorities effectively.
According to him, Johor’s future success depends on leaders who can work closely with the Federal Government while understanding that the state remains an important part of the wider Malaysian framework.
“That is why Johor’s leadership must be in the hands of individuals who are wise and brave. Only then can they make the right decisions, protect Johor’s interests and at the same time recognise that Johor is part of Malaysia,” he said.
Anwar also reiterated that the Federal Government remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of Malaysians in every state, including those governed by opposition parties. He said assistance and development allocations continue to be distributed based on the needs of the people rather than political considerations.
He cited Kelantan as an example, noting that federal support for flood mitigation efforts and infrastructure development continues despite the state being administered by the opposition.
