THE Federal Government is increasingly grounding national development planning in feedback from state administrations to ensure projects genuinely meet public needs, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, emphasised that this consultative approach marks a significant shift away from relying solely on federal assumptions when shaping the country’s development framework.
He said the closer cooperation between federal and state governments allows development plans to be tailored to the realities of each state, including Johor, which he noted has become one of the nation’s largest economic contributors.
“Johor continues to demonstrate impressive investment performance with estimated investment values potentially surpassing RM100 billion, a development described as a new record for the state.
“This achievement reflects the confidence of both foreign and domestic investors in the nation’s economic stability and in the more structured direction of development under the Madani Government,” he said.
Turning to infrastructure, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of modern transport networks, including new electric transport initiatives poised to serve as catalysts for local economic growth.
He said the infrastructure effort is not merely a rail project but an integrated plan encompassing economic hubs, commercial areas, food courts, housing and various community facilities around each station.
According to him, every new station will be developed strategically to create fresh growth zones, stimulate economic activity and expand employment opportunities for surrounding communities.
“This model of transport-based development, or transit-oriented development, will form one of the key pillars of the country’s economic renewal in the coming years,” he said.
Anwar also reaffirmed that Malaysia–Singapore cooperation through the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) will continue to be strengthened to attract more high-value investments.
He said bilateral economic ties are currently at their strongest, with Johor expected to benefit significantly, especially in technology, logistics, smart manufacturing and new energy sectors.
“The Madani Economy requires development that is not only impressive in scale but ensures its benefits reach the people at all levels,” he said.
He delivered the remarks at the Completion and Operationalisation Ceremony of the Gemas–Johor Bahru Electrified Double-Tracking Project (PLBEGJB) at KTMB Kempas Baru Station today.
The ceremony was officiated by the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim. - December 11, 2025
