Johor: The Johor government has clarified that the recent appointment of 10 deputy state executive councillors is designed to enhance administrative capabilities rather than increase political appointments or expand the state bureaucracy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi emphasized that the initiative aims to improve policy implementation, project monitoring, and the resolution of public issues efficiently and effectively. He noted that the appointments were made within the administrative jurisdiction of the state government and based on advice from the state legal adviser.

Onn Hafiz clarified that the deputy exco members are not part of the executive council and do not hold the authority to make decisions on behalf of the exco. They are not involved in council meetings and lack the power to approve policies, financial matters, or executive decisions. He reassured that decision-making powers remain with the state executive council members as per the Johor state constitution.

He explained that the appointments are in line with Johor's rapid growth and several strategic agendas aimed at 2030, such as the Johor Economic Transformation Plan, Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, and the RTS Link project. The enhancement of administrative capacity is necessary to ensure that policies are effectively implemented to benefit the people of Johor.

On the financial front, Onn Hafiz stated that the appointments were made within the state's financial capability, involving minimal financial implications by utilizing existing state government assets and facilities. No new portfolios were created, and the administrative structure did not expand in a way that would burden the state's finances.

He reiterated that the appointments do not alter the electoral mandate but serve as a mechanism to bolster policy implementation and service delivery. Onn Hafiz acknowledged differing viewpoints on the matter but urged that the appointments be viewed comprehensively based on administrative principles, current needs, and legal considerations.

The Menteri Besar assured that the state government is committed to transparent, prudent, and responsible governance, with decisions based on the interests of the people, current needs, and efforts to enhance administrative capabilities.