Muar: The Muar District Office today dismissed allegations that it had obstructed a government event on June 15, clarifying that the programme was instead moved to a different venue for specific administrative reasons.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Muar District Officer Zainal Eran stated that the district administration requested the event be relocated to uphold the principle of neutrality in the use of government assets, stressing that government buildings should not be used for political programmes or activities.

He referred to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's engagement programme with the local community, which was initially scheduled to be held at the Sungai Balang Mukim Penghulu Complex. It was moved to Pantai Leka Food Court Square following discussions between the Muar District Administration and the Johor State Development Office.

Zainal informed that the programme was successfully held at the new venue, drawing a strong turnout of federal government leaders, officials from relevant agencies, and members of the rural community.

Zainal explained that the district administration's decision was also influenced by the absence of an early formal application and limited programme details, with less than 24 hours' notice making it difficult to coordinate logistical arrangements properly.

He added that the concerns were justified when an inspection on the morning of the event found the area surrounding the new venue already lined with political party flags, even though the official campaign period for the Johor state election had yet to begin.

As a result, the district authorities acted to ensure state government facilities would not be perceived as being used for partisan political activities.

Zainal also urged all parties to act responsibly and stop politicising the matter, stressing that the programme had ultimately achieved its objective of engaging with the people in a peaceful and orderly manner.

The Johor state election will be held on July 11, with early voting on July 7.