Johor bahru: Pakatan Harapan (PH) is set to unveil its manifesto for the upcoming 16th Johor state election, promising a comprehensive and realistic development plan that addresses the genuine needs of the people, according to Johor PKR chairman Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zaliha stated that the manifesto would focus on narrowing the development gap between districts, improving living standards, and charting a clear path to boost the state's economy. She emphasized that the offers have been thoroughly researched, ensuring they align with the people's needs. This information was shared through an audio podcast, 'Secawan Teh Tarik,' available on Dr Zaliha Mustafa's Facebook page.
One of the main objectives of the manifesto is to tackle the economic development imbalance, which is predominantly concentrated in the southern region, notably around Johor Bahru. Dr Zaliha, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Sekijang, highlighted that this focus on one area has left several districts with untapped potential lagging behind in development and commercial infrastructure.
Dr Zaliha pointed out that northern districts like Segamat, which encompass Labis, Sekijang, and Segamat constituencies, alongside the nearby Ledang parliamentary area, possess significant economic potential. However, these districts lack the necessary modern commercial infrastructure, such as hypermarkets and high-end hotels, to support educational institutions like Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) and Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT).
She further noted that the development imbalance is also prevalent in the eastern and central districts of Johor, affecting areas such as Tanjung Piai, Pontian, Simpang Renggam, and Mersing.
In addition, Dr Zaliha asserted that during PH's previous administration, the promises made in their manifesto were not mere rhetoric. She shared that most of the commitments were successfully implemented, thanks to diligent monitoring within the Cabinet. This track record, she believes, demonstrates that the goals set for the upcoming Johor Polls are achievable.
The Johor state election is scheduled for July 11, with early voting slated for July 7.