ISKANDAR PUTERI: The Johor state government is formally requesting that 20 percent of its tax revenue be returned to the state by the Federal government. This initiative was announced by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, who emphasized the significance of this request for the development and welfare of Johor’s residents.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Onn Hafiz stated that this request aligns with the directive from the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail. The state government is keen on ensuring that Johor’s populace benefits directly from the revenue generated, thus facilitating more comprehensive development projects. The announcement was made during the conclusion of the Johor assembly session held in Kota Iskandar.

In response to a query from Johor assembly Speaker Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi about the exact percentage of the request, Onn Hafiz clarified that while the initial request stands at 20 percent, the state would consider even a 10 percent allocation as a beneficial starting poin
t. He illustrated the potential impact by citing a hypothetical development fund allocation, which could reach up to half a billion ringgit across various constituencies in Johor.

Onn Hafiz further revealed several initiatives under the Johor Budget 2025, totaling RM26 million. This includes RM300,000 allocated for Dewan Muda Johor, a platform for youth engagement in governance. Additionally, RM200,000 each has been earmarked for the Police Retirees Association and the Armed Forces Veterans Association, reflecting the state’s appreciation for their services.

Other allocations include RM800,000 for military camps throughout Johor and RM750,000 for the Johor Contingent Police Headquarters and 13 District Police Headquarters. Moreover, RM150,000 has been dedicated to the Johor Media Club to honor media practitioners.

Meanwhile, the Johor state assembly has unanimously approved the 2025 state budget, amounting to RM1.999 billion. Speaker Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi announced that the budget, themed “Maju Johor
, Rakyat Sejahtera,” was passed after extensive debate commencing the previous Sunday. On November 21, Onn Hafiz had tabled the Johor 2025 budget, noting a surplus of RM5.12 million, marking his third consecutive surplus budget presentation.