KUALA LUMPUR – Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar has instructed all upcoming state executive committee members to declare their assets with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
In a statement issued by the Johor Royal Press Office, Sultan Ibrahim said the exco members must make the disclosure ahead of their appointments.
“They (exco candidates) must also undergo thorough background checks with police and MACC. If (you) are not selected as a state executive committee member, do not be disheartened. All can provide the best service possible.”
Sultan Ibrahim said this after an audience with newly minted menteri besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi in Johor Baru yesterday.
During the hour-long audience with Onn Hafiz, Sultan Ibrahim had also ordered for the academic credentials of the candidates to be verified as well.
“The election is over. Now is the time for all representatives to close ranks and work together to ensure the prosperity of Johor. I will hold on to the words of (former menteri besar) Datuk Hasni (Mohammad): there is no bigger political ideology or party that is more important than Johor Darul Ta’zim.”
Sultan Ibrahim also told the exco members to continue to prioritise the people, while other elected representatives must carry out their responsibilities in serving the people.
“If the exco member cannot carry out their future duties, then the menteri besar must immediately replace the exco member.
“My advice to the menteri besar is to focus on the role and responsibilities towards the state and people. Do not be obliging (otherwise). In the early phase, Datuk Onn must also cooperate with Datuk Hasni in gaining views and advice.”
Onn Hafiz was sworn in as menteri besar of the state on Tuesday after receiving the consent of Sultan Ibrahim.
He had previously held the state’s tourism, youth, and sports portfolio and was active in youth movements.
During the Johor polls on March 12, Onn Hafiz had defeated three candidates for the Machap seat, with a majority of 11,029 votes.
The 43-year-old is also the grandson of the late former prime minister Tun Hussein Onn and nephew of Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.
Barisan Nasional managed to capture Johor in a landslide victory, winning the state election with a more than two-thirds majority, sweeping 40 of the 56 seats up for grabs. – The Vibes, March 17, 2022
