Day: July 8, 2026

PH Candidate Yeo Tung Siong Criticises Delays in Pekan Nanas Bypass Road Project

PONTIAN, July 8 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Pekan Nanas state seat, Yeo Tung Siong, has expressed disappointment over the continued delays to the proposed Pekan Nanas bypass road project, claiming that the development has repeatedly been sidelined in favour of other projects under the Johor Barisan Nasional (BN) state administration. In a media statement issued today, Yeo said the proposed alternative route connecting Jalan Sawah in Pekan Nanas to Ulu Choh had faced repeated postponements due to funding priorities being shifted to other projects. He said the development of Pekan Nanas should not be neglected, especially as other areas such as Iskandar Puteri and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) continue to progress rapidly. “Residents of Pekan Nanas are still facing the same traffic congestion issues every day, despite these problems being preventable with proper infrastructure planning,” he said. Yeo claimed that during his tenure as Pekan Nanas assemblyman from 2018 to 2021, he had raised the issue at least four times in the Johor State Legislative Assembly and continued engaging relevant government agencies to push for the project. He said these efforts eventually led to the project being included in the Johor Budget 2021 under the Johor Infrastructure package for roads and bridges. According to Yeo, the land acquisition process began after the project was included in the state budget. However, following the 2022 general election, he continued monitoring its progress and sought assistance from DAP Johor Opposition Leader Andrew Chen to raise the matter in the state assembly. Yeo said he was disappointed with the Johor government’s response in 2024, claiming the project had been postponed in 2023 and 2024 due to rising construction costs and the need to apply for an increase in the project ceiling allocation. He questioned the state government’s decision to prioritise other projects, saying the bypass road was important to improve the daily lives of tens of thousands of residents. Yeo also highlighted that the Johor government recorded a fiscal surplus of RM95.38 million in 2024, questioning why the project could not proceed despite available financial resources. “This is not merely a question of funding, but whether there is the commitment and determination to implement the project,” he said. Comparing the records of representatives involved in the constituency, Yeo claimed that he had continued pushing the project forward even while in opposition, while the current government representative had not been able to ensure its implementation. He added that the delay had worsened traffic conditions in Pekan Nanas, with heavy vehicles such as sand lorries continuing to use Jalan Sawah, contributing to congestion affecting residents travelling to work and sending children to school. Yeo urged Pekan Nanas voters to give him another opportunity to represent them in the Johor State Legislative Assembly, pledging to continue advocating for the bypass road project until it is implemented and completed. He is contesting the N55 Pekan Nanas state seat as a PH candidate in the 16th Johor State Election (PRU16). -- MINUTESMY

PONTIAN, July 8 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Pekan Nanas state seat, Yeo Tung Siong, has expressed disappointment over the continued delays to the proposed Pekan Nanas bypass road project, claiming that the development has repeatedly been sidelined in favour of other projects under the Johor Barisan Nasional (BN) state administration. In a […]

PH’s Nor Zulaila Calls for Stronger River Protection, Sustainable Development in Tiram

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Tiram state seat, Nor Zulaila, has called for stricter enforcement against river pollution and greater community participation in environmental conservation, warning that Johor must not allow another environmental disaster like the 2019 Sungai Kim Kim incident. In a media statement on Tuesday, Nor Zulaila said the Sungai Kim Kim tragedy, which affected thousands of residents and forced the closure of schools, remained a painful reminder that effective enforcement is essential to protect public health and the environment. She said while Malaysia already has environmental laws, there should be no compromise in enforcing them consistently to prevent future pollution incidents. "As Tiram continues to experience rapid development and attract investment, economic growth must go hand in hand with environmental protection. Development is only meaningful if it safeguards the health, safety and quality of life of the people," she said. Nor Zulaila, who holds an academic background in environmental studies, said rivers should not be viewed merely as waterways but as the lifeblood of communities, reflecting how responsibly development and natural resources are managed. Drawing on more than 12 years of community service, she said environmental issues directly affect people's daily lives, including public health, livelihoods, water supply and public confidence in their local communities. To strengthen environmental stewardship, she proposed establishing Sahabat Sungai Tiram, a community-based initiative involving residents, youths, schools, non-governmental organisations and industry players to monitor rivers, organise regular clean-up programmes, conduct environmental education and provide a rapid reporting channel for pollution incidents. She also proposed expanding outdoor environmental education programmes to allow students to learn about local rivers, biodiversity, water quality and conservation efforts firsthand. According to Nor Zulaila, exposing children to environmental conservation from a young age would help cultivate a more responsible generation that values and protects natural resources. At the same time, she urged authorities to intensify enforcement against river pollution, stressing that compliant industries should continue to receive support while those found polluting rivers must face firm action without compromise. Nor Zulaila said she hoped Tiram would become known not only as a rapidly developing constituency but also as a model for sustainable and responsible development, where economic progress and environmental conservation advance together through effective governance, responsible planning and active community participation. -- MINUTESMY

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Tiram state seat, Nor Zulaila, has called for stricter enforcement against river pollution and greater community participation in environmental conservation, warning that Johor must not allow another environmental disaster like the 2019 Sungai Kim Kim incident. In a media statement on Tuesday, Nor Zulaila […]

Johor Polls: Ahmad Daniel Ready To Unlock Panti’s Hidden Potential

KOTA TINGGI, July 8  -- With its unique natural attractions that have yet to be fully explored, Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Ahmad Daniel Sharudin is determined to transform the Panti state seat into one of the district’s leading eco-tourism destinations if given the mandate in the upcoming Johor state election. Ahmad Daniel, 54, said that revitalising the eco-tourism sector would not only help preserve the constituency’s natural heritage but also serve as a catalyst for local economic growth, particularly benefiting small business owners and the local community. The former Kota Tinggi District Council (MDKT) member said that the Panti state seat is home to valuable natural gems, including the rapids at Kampung Temenin, which have significant potential to be upgraded and developed into an attractive destination for both domestic and international visitors. “In Kota Tinggi, we are well known for our waterfalls. In Panti, however, we have beautiful natural rapids that remain largely untapped and require upgrading and rebranding. “Insya-Allah, if we are given the mandate, we will improve the infrastructure there without compromising the original ecosystem, while creating another healthy recreational destination for both the local community and tourists,” he told Bernama. The Johor-born candidate, who has a background in civil engineering, said sustainable eco-tourism development could also address another pressing issue in the constituency - the lack of quality employment opportunities for young people. He said the limited economic activity in the area has forced some youths to seek employment outside the district, with some even crossing into Singapore in search of better job opportunities. “Once the tourism sector flourishes, related industries such as homestays, restaurants and tour guide services will also grow, creating new business and employment opportunities for local youths,” he said. In addition to his tourism agenda, Ahmad Daniel, who is also the state Amanah’s Syariah and Dakwah Bureau director, outlined three other key priorities in his manifesto: providing affordable housing, creating employment opportunities in the industrial sector, and upgrading ageing public infrastructure. He described these plans as realistic and achievable, citing his political alignment with the current federal government administration as an advantage in facilitating their implementation. On his campaign efforts, the Tenggara Amanah division chief said his team is now operating at full capacity, having successfully conducted face-to-face outreach in nearly 80 per cent of the Panti state constituency. He acknowledged that the vast geographical size of the Panti state seat presents a challenge for his team to physically cover the entire constituency with only four days remaining before polling day. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic that his message and campaign pledges will reach all voters through a final campaign push that makes aggressive use of social media platforms. “For the remainder of the campaign period, we will further strengthen our digital strategy through social media to ensure our message reaches voters across all age groups,” he said. Ahmad Daniel is set to face a three-cornered contest against Dr Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali of Barisan Nasional (BN) and Alias Rasman of Perikatan Nasional (PN). The 16th Johor state election will see 172 candidates contesting 56 state seats, with the outcome to be decided by 2.7 million eligible voters this Saturday (July 11). -- BERNAMA 

KOTA TINGGI, July 8  — With its unique natural attractions that have yet to be fully explored, Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Ahmad Daniel Sharudin is determined to transform the Panti state seat into one of the district’s leading eco-tourism destinations if given the mandate in the upcoming Johor state election. Ahmad Daniel, 54, said that […]

Several Major Roads In Seremban To Close For Post-state Polls Simulation

SEREMBAN, July 8 -- Several major roads in Seremban city centre will be closed and traffic diverted in stages on Thursday and Friday to facilitate a post-state polls simulation for the 16th Negeri Sembilan State Election at the Seremban City Council (MBS) Hall on Jalan Yam Tuan. Seremban district police chief ACP Mohd Yatim Osman said the road closures would be implemented tomorrow from 3 pm to 5 pm for a rehearsal, while on July 10, they would be in effect from 3 pm to 5.30 pm for the post-election simulation. He said among the main roads affected are Jalan Yam Tuan, Jalan Dato' Sheikh Ahmad, Lorong Khalsa and Jalan Lim Kee Siong. "The affected junctions and roads to be closed or diverted are Jalan Tuanku Hassan/Jalan Yam Tuan (Madura), Jalan Lee Fong Yee/Jalan Yam Tuan, Jalan Lim Kee Siong/Jalan Jawa, and Lorong Khalsa/Lorong Jawa," he said in a statement here today. Mohd Yatim said motorists are advised to use alternative routes, including Jalan Dato' Abdul Malik, Jalan Tuanku Hassan, Jalan Tuanku Munawir and Jalan Dato' Abdul Kadir. He also advised the public to avoid the affected routes during the closure period, comply with instructions issued by traffic police personnel on duty, and plan their journeys to avoid congestion. For enquiries on the road closures, the public may contact the Seremban District Police Headquarters Operations Room at 06-6033477 or 06-6014999. Polling for the Negeri Sembilan state election has been set for Aug 1, with nominations on July 18. -- Credit: FB - Ibu Pejabat Polis Daerah Seremban -- BERNAMA 

SEREMBAN, July 8 — Several major roads in Seremban city centre will be closed and traffic diverted in stages on Thursday and Friday to facilitate a post-state polls simulation for the 16th Negeri Sembilan State Election at the Seremban City Council (MBS) Hall on Jalan Yam Tuan. Seremban district police chief ACP Mohd Yatim Osman […]

Johor Voters Urged to Exercise Democratic Rights Ahead of 16th State Election

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Voters in Johor have been encouraged to fulfil their democratic responsibility by casting their ballots in the 16th Johor State Election (PRU16) on Saturday, July 11, 2026. The public reminder stressed that every vote represents a voice that can help shape the future direction of the state. Voters are advised to first check their voting details through the MySPR Check application or the official voter information portal before heading to their respective polling stations. They are also encouraged to plan their journey and allocate sufficient time to travel to polling centres to ensure a smooth voting process. The call urged Johor residents to demonstrate their commitment to democracy by coming out to vote and exercising their constitutional right in the state election. With polling day approaching, voters are reminded that active participation in the electoral process is an important responsibility in determining the future leadership and development of Johor. -- MINUTESMY

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Voters in Johor have been encouraged to fulfil their democratic responsibility by casting their ballots in the 16th Johor State Election (PRU16) on Saturday, July 11, 2026. The public reminder stressed that every vote represents a voice that can help shape the future direction of the state. Voters are advised […]

Mohd Uzir Leaves Behind Stronger, More Integrated Statistical System – DOSM

PUTRAJAYA, July 8 -- The 36-year service of Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin in Malaysia’s statistics system came to an end with a lasting legacy, having strengthened the country’s statistical framework through the National Statistical System Strengthening (PSSN) agenda. The initiative became a key pillar in enhancing the coordination, quality and accessibility of official statistics across ministries and government agencies. The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), in a statement today, said the agenda had driven several strategic reforms, including the establishment of the National Statistics and Data Council (MSDN) at state and district levels, the modernisation of the Statistics Act 1965 (Act 415) to meet digital-era needs, and capacity building in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. These initiatives have laid a strong foundation for a more modern, integrated and responsive data ecosystem. “Mohd Uzir also pioneered the data democratisation agenda through OpenDOSM NextGen, expanding public access to official statistics through an open and user-friendly platform, while enhancing digital initiatives such as MyPAKW and MyLabourHub to ensure statistical services remain relevant,” DOSM said. It added that Mohd Uzir also introduced a more detailed approach to data reporting through publications such as the Parliamentary Constituency and State Legislative Assembly Statistical Reports, MyLocalStats and District Gross Domestic Product (GDP), providing new insights for regional development and local planning. During his tenure at DOSM, Mohd Uzir also led several high-impact projects that leveraged data integration and advanced analytics, including the Central Database Hub (PADU), MyLabourHub, MyPAKW, TaniStats, the Life Expectancy Calculator and the establishment of the National Big Data Analytics Centre. Other initiatives introduced under his leadership included the Cause of Death Calculator, Malaysia Orang Asli Interactive Dashboard and Beyond GDP Dashboard. DOSM said Mohd Uzir’s career also saw the successful implementation of the Malaysia Population and Housing Census 2020, a significant milestone as it was conducted through a digital approach despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. At the international level, Mohd Uzir represented Malaysia at the United Nations Statistical Commission since 2017 and held several key positions, including Chairman of the ASEAN Community Statistical System and Chair of the Governing Board of the Statistical Institute for Asia and the Pacific. Under his leadership, Malaysia achieved global recognition by ranking first in the Open Data Inventory, while successfully hosting the 2019 World Statistics Congress of the International Statistical Institute and the ASEAN-Malaysia Statistics Forum 2025. These achievements further strengthened Malaysia’s position in advancing official statistics internationally. Besides institutional transformation, Mohd Uzir also promoted greater public appreciation of statistics through the declaration of National Statistics Day on Oct 20, while strengthening statistical talent development through the Statistical Capacity Building Programme, which produced 49 DOSM data scientists, and the Malaysian Institute of Statistics Training as a centre of excellence for capacity building. DOSM expressed its highest appreciation and gratitude to Mohd Uzir, who reached mandatory retirement yesterday after 36 years of service, for his dedication, exemplary leadership and significant contributions to transforming Malaysia’s statistical landscape. The department said his legacy would continue to inspire DOSM personnel in advancing the national statistical development agenda towards the prosperity of Malaysia MADANI. -- BERNAMA 

PUTRAJAYA, July 8 — The 36-year service of Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin in Malaysia’s statistics system came to an end with a lasting legacy, having strengthened the country’s statistical framework through the National Statistical System Strengthening (PSSN) agenda. The initiative became a key pillar in enhancing the coordination, quality and accessibility […]

PH’s Cheah Eyes RTS, JS-SEZ to Drive Kukup’s Tourism and Economic Growth

PONTIAN, July 8 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for Kukup, Cheah Chee Hong, has outlined plans to position the coastal constituency as a key beneficiary of the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), saying both initiatives could unlock new opportunities for tourism and local businesses. Cheah said Kukup, known as the southernmost tip of mainland Asia, is well-placed to capitalise on the expected increase in visitors travelling through Johor from Singapore once the RTS Link becomes operational. He noted that the journey from Johor Bahru to Kukup takes about an hour, making the destination easily accessible to both local and international tourists seeking seafood, coastal attractions, and nature-based experiences. However, Cheah stressed that transforming Kukup into a thriving tourism destination requires more than promotional campaigns. He said long-standing infrastructure issues must first be addressed to improve the overall visitor experience and quality of life for residents. If elected in the Johor state election on July 11, Cheah pledged to prioritise the upgrading of basic infrastructure, including widening roads, improving street lighting, enhancing telecommunications coverage with better 5G connectivity, and strengthening waste management services. He also proposed introducing a more systematic waste collection programme by appointing more efficient contractors to ensure cleaner public spaces. To further boost tourism, Cheah said he hopes to collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to develop a more organised and comprehensive promotional strategy for Kukup, rather than relying solely on social media campaigns. In addition, he proposed establishing a large night market near the Kukup International Ferry Terminal with between 100 and 200 stalls dedicated to local entrepreneurs. According to Cheah, the initiative would not only attract more visitors but also create greater business opportunities for residents by supporting local vendors and small businesses. "I want to create business opportunities, not just jobs," he said. Cheah will face Barisan Nasional candidate Israk Abdullah in the contest for the Kukup state seat. He also called on Johoreans living or working in Singapore to return home and cast their ballots on polling day, saying every vote would help shape Johor's future.  -- MINUTESMY 

PONTIAN, July 8 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for Kukup, Cheah Chee Hong, has outlined plans to position the coastal constituency as a key beneficiary of the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), saying both initiatives could unlock new opportunities for tourism and local businesses. Cheah said Kukup, known […]