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TANGKAK, July 6 -- Datuk Seri Dr.  Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has reiterated that United Malays National Organisation will not establish any cooperation with Parti Islam Se-Malaysia despite appreciating the party’s open support for Barisan Nasional candidates in the Johor state election. According to Zahid, who is also BN chairman, the support expressed by PAS leaders does not alter Umno’s position nor create any new form of collaboration between the two parties, which are contesting separately in the Johor polls. “BN greatly appreciates the open support, but it does not change the status or create any new cooperation between Umno and PAS, which are contesting separately in this election. “That support comes from PAS leadership. We appreciate the support. “And we do not feel that the support will influence any alliance or cooperation that Umno, in particular, has or will establish with PAS,” he told reporters when met in Tangkak, Johor, today. Zahid added that BN respects PAS’ stance, but said the sincerity and impact of the support would only be evident when the votes are counted. “We respect their position, and we hope the support will truly materialise. “We will see it in the ballot papers that will be opened on July 11,” he said. Previously, PAS had instructed its machinery and supporters to support BN candidates even though both parties are contesting separately in the Johor state election. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB SUARA UMNO

UMNO Will Not Cooperate With PAS Despite Support for BN Candidates – Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi

TANGKAK, July 6 — Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has reiterated that United Malays National Organisation will not establish any cooperation with Parti Islam Se-Malaysia despite appreciating the party’s .... read more

SEMERAH, July 6 -- YB Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has called on voters in Semerah to support Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Mohd Khuzzan Abu Bakar, describing him as a hardworking leader who understands the needs of the people and consistently serves the community yesterday. Fahmi said he had the opportunity to accompany Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at the People's Feast Programme alongside Mohd Khuzzan. According to Fahmi, the Prime Minister urged the people of Semerah to give their mandate to Mohd Khuzzan so that he could become an effective voice in the Johor State Legislative Assembly and champion the aspirations and welfare of local residents. Fahmi said Semerah needed a representative who was committed to serving the people, understood local issues and maintained a strong presence on the ground. He also highlighted the Prime Minister's appreciation for the efforts of Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), which continues to assist communities, particularly women, by providing opportunities to generate income and improve their standard of living. Fahmi said empowering women through access to opportunities and sustained support not only transforms individual lives but also strengthens families and contributes to building more prosperous communities. -- MINUTESMY

YB Datuk Fahmi Calls on Semerah Voters to Back PH Candidate Mohd Khuzzan

SEMERAH, July 6 — YB Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has called on voters in Semerah to support Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Mohd Khuzzan Abu Bakar, describing him as a hardworking leader .... read more

YONG PENG, July 6 — Wee Ka Siong has urged the federal government to restore the originally announced 10-year tax exemption for the Tunku Abdul Rahman Education Foundation, arguing that the move is crucial to ensuring affordable higher education for students from all backgrounds yesterday. Speaking at the "Maju Johor – Yong Peng People's Rally" on Sunday night, the MCA president confirmed media reports that the Foundation's tax exemption period had been reduced from the promised 10 years to only three years. Wee said the reduction contradicted a public announcement made by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during his visit to Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) in February, when he announced that education foundations would receive a 10-year tax exemption. According to Wee, the Ministry of Finance later issued an official letter in June granting the Foundation a tax exemption of only three years instead of the promised decade. He said he would continue to appeal to the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Finance to reinstate the Foundation's full 10-year tax exemption, stressing that the measure is essential to help TAR UMT continue providing quality tertiary education at affordable fees, particularly for underprivileged students regardless of race. Wee also argued that education should not be politicised, urging the MADANI government not to take actions that could affect educational opportunities for the younger generation. During the rally, Wee also called on voters in Yong Peng to support Barisan Nasional candidate Ling Tian Soon in the upcoming Johor state election. He praised Ling's 16 years of service to the Yong Peng community, saying the incumbent had remained committed to serving residents even after losing the seat in 2018 before regaining it in the 2022 Johor state election. Wee urged voters to once again back Ling in order to ensure the continuity of development and progress in Yong Peng. -- MINUTESMY

Wee Ka Siong Urges Government to Restore TAR UMT Foundation’s 10-Year Tax Exemption

YONG PENG, July 6 — Wee Ka Siong has urged the federal government to restore the originally announced 10-year tax exemption for the Tunku Abdul Rahman Education Foundation, arguing that .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU. JULY 6 -- Skudai state assembly candidate Kartiyaini Jeyapalan has called on Barisan Nasional (BN) to provide a clear public explanation regarding the appointment process of nominated state assembly members in Johor, following recent remarks by the Menteri Besar. The Johor Menteri Besar had reportedly stated that BN candidates who were defeated in the recent state election will not be considered for appointment as nominated state assembly members. The statement has sparked public debate and raised questions over the transparency and criteria behind such appointments. Kartiyaini said the clarification is necessary as it has led to further public speculation on whether the selection of nominated assembly members had already been predetermined prior to the election. “If only winning candidates are eligible for nomination, does this imply that the allocation of nominated seats was already fixed in advance?” she questioned, adding that such concerns warrant a clear explanation from the state government. She also raised questions over whether any political understandings or arrangements had been made involving other parties, including PAS, which did not contest in most constituencies in the election. Kartiyaini stressed that she was not making any accusations, but was instead raising concerns on behalf of the public regarding transparency in political processes and appointments. “In a democratic system, matters involving political cooperation and public appointments must be open to scrutiny, rather than left to speculation,” she said. She added that the people of Johor have the right to know whether any undisclosed agreements existed, and urged BN leadership and the Menteri Besar to respond clearly and openly to prevent further speculation. “Politics can be competitive, but it must also be transparent. The public deserves honesty and clarity from those in power,” she said. -- MINUTESMY

BN should publicly clarify whether there was a prior political agreement on appointed state assembly members – Kartiyaini Jeyapalan

JOHOR BAHRU, JULY 6 — Skudai state assembly candidate Kartiyaini Jeyapalan has called on Barisan Nasional (BN) to provide a clear public explanation regarding the appointment process of nominated state .... read more

SEGAMAT, JULY 6 -- The campaign trail for the Johor state election continued in Segamat as Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari joined Datuk Seri Dr. Zaliha Mustafa at a community engagement programme held in conjunction with a friendly gathering event attended by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The programme saw a strong turnout from local residents, with organisers describing the atmosphere as highly encouraging, reflecting active public interest in the ongoing political campaign in the state. During the event, Amirudin said that communities in areas such as DUN Pemanis and DUN Jementah should receive equitable access to economic opportunities, quality employment, and development on par with more urbanised regions in Johor. He stressed that no district should be left behind in the state’s development agenda. He also outlined the broader aspiration of the coalition to form a state government that prioritises not only attracting high-value investments but also ensuring that such investments translate into tangible benefits for the people, including job creation, income growth, and wider economic spillover effects. Amirudin called on party workers to maintain campaign momentum, engage voters, and continue efforts to communicate their message ahead of polling day, emphasizing the importance of securing voter support for their political objectives in Johor. -- MINUTESMY

Johor Deserves Inclusive Growth and Equal Development Across All Districts – Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari

SEGAMAT, JULY 6 — The campaign trail for the Johor state election continued in Segamat as Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari joined Datuk Seri Dr. Zaliha Mustafa at a community .... read more

LETANG, July 6 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has criticised attempts to politicise legal matters, stressing that the rule of law must be respected and should not be dragged into the Johor state election campaign. Speaking during a campaign event in Letang, Anwar said it was inappropriate for any party to use issues involving former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak in a way that could influence voter sentiment or distort the democratic process. “There is no compromise in the rule of law. It is unnecessary to bring such issues into the election arena for political gain and create chaos,” he said. He added that efforts to link electoral outcomes with legal decisions undermine democratic principles and risk misleading the public. Anwar also criticised what he described as attempts to shape political narratives around the case, saying such actions should not be used as campaign material during the state election. The Prime Minister further noted reports of political statements suggesting that a strong electoral victory for any party could influence the outcome of Najib’s legal situation. He said such claims were irresponsible and should not be used to sway voters. Opposition parties have meanwhile intensified campaigning in Johor, with various issues, including Najib’s case, featuring prominently in political speeches and public discourse. Analysts say the controversy could influence voter sentiment as campaigning enters its final phase. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: VANAKAM MALAYSIA

Johor Election: PM Anwar Cautions Against Using Najib Issue for Political Gain

LETANG, July 6 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has criticised attempts to politicise legal matters, stressing that the rule of law must be respected and should not be .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, July 6  -- Campaigning for the 16th Johor State Election, now in its second week, has seen the two main political coalitions intensify their groundwork to reach out to the voters, with each banking on its own unique approaches to win the people's hearts. Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN), both fielding candidates in all 56 state seats, are opting for different campaign strategies and policy offerings ahead of the Saturday (July 11) polling day. PH is emphasising policy agendas and solutions that address the daily concerns of the people, while BN is leveraging on the strength of its party network and the presence of several high-profile political figures to boost campaign momentum. Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub, a political analyst from Universiti Malaya, said PH's strategy is more focused on convincing voters through its policy offerings that address issues related to cost of living, income growth, access to affordable housing, human capital development and a more equitable distribution of economic benefits. He said the approach reflects PH's efforts to advance the narrative that Johor's development should not be measured solely by investment figures or economic growth, but instead be translated into tangible benefits that can be felt directly by the people. "PH is trying to convince voters that Johor's development should not merely be about investment figures but must result in better wages, affordable housing, quality employment opportunities and better guaranteed welfare for the people,” he told Bernama. "PH has unveiled its manifesto, titled "Johor For All”, which outlines a comprehensive action plan to address these critical issues, including focusing on integrated strategies to increase domestic wage levels, as well as ensuring investment returns are directly translated into improving the welfare and quality of life of the people of Johor as a whole. Meanwhile, observations at the BN camp show that the coalition has started aggressively leveraging the return of two well-known personalities: former UMNO vice-president Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein and former UMNO Youth chief  Khairy Jamaluddin (KJ), who both rejoined UMNO through the 'Rumah Bangsa’ initiative. Commenting on the re-emergence of former BN leaders in the state polls, Muhammad Tawfik said that in the current political landscape, voters have become increasingly discerning and are no longer easily influenced by the mere presence of prominent political figures at campaign talks (ceramah). "Voters today are more critical. They not only see who is delivering campaign speeches, but also evaluate whether the party has clear policy offerings, credible candidates and policies that address the people's concerns,” he said. Meanwhile, Ilham Centre chief researcher Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Yusry Ibrahim said Hishammuddin's active participation in this election campaign could very well reconvince some of the UMNO supporters who had previously become disillusioned with or distanced themselves from the party. The Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) lecturer also said that Hishammuddin still has a major influence in Johor, which could help revive support for BN, especially among the coalition's traditional supporters. Mohd Yusry added that Khairy's presence could also swing the advantage in BN's favour as it strives to reach out to younger voters, since he is one of the political figures who consistently enjoys positive support among that demographic. "KJ has consistently been a popular figure among the younger voters. His return has helped BN's campaign quite a bit, and it could spark an interest among a segment of voters that UMNO and BN had previously struggled to reach,” he said. According to him, voting patterns among young people have become increasingly fluid, as they no longer display the strong party loyalty seen in previous generations. "Young voters generally are not loyal to any party. They are more attracted to public figures they recognise, follow and feel connected to. That's why the candidate factor is becoming increasingly crucial to determining the voting inclination of this group,” he said. The Johor state election will see 172 candidates contesting 56 seats. Polling will be held on Saturday (July 11), while early voting is scheduled for July 7. -- BERNAMA

Johor Polls: PH, BN Adopt Different Strategies, Bank On Distinct Strengths

JOHOR BAHRU, July 6 — Campaigning for the 16th Johor State Election, now in its second week, has seen the two main political coalitions intensify their groundwork to reach out .... read more

PENGERANG, JULY 6 -- The welfare and long-term sustainability of fishermen in Sungai Rengit must be given serious and immediate attention, following a key engagement session between the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) leadership and the local fishing community, said Pakatan Harapan candidate for N39 Tanjung Surat, Faizul Abdul Ghani. The meeting, involving LKIM Chairman Tuan Haji Muhammad Faiz bin Dato’ Haji Fadzil and the Sungai Rengit Fishermen Association, provided a platform for local fishermen to directly voice long-standing issues affecting their livelihoods. Faizul said fishermen must not only be heard during specific seasons or occasions, but their concerns must be continuously addressed as they form a vital part of the local economy in Tanjung Surat, particularly in Sungai Rengit and surrounding coastal areas. Among the key issues raised was the fishing licence system, where concerns were expressed over inactive licence holders while active fishermen struggle to obtain proper licensing. It was also highlighted that out of nearly 300 fishermen in the area, a significant number are still operating without formal licences despite relying on fishing as their primary source of income. Fishermen proposed a comprehensive verification or field audit exercise by LKIM and the Department of Fisheries to ensure that licences are issued to genuine active fishermen, so that government aid, subsidies, and protection reach the intended recipients. The issue of licensing was also discussed in relation to Sungai Rengit’s strategic coastal location near international waters and close proximity to Singapore, where proper documentation is crucial to prevent enforcement complications or detention by foreign maritime authorities. In addition, fishermen raised concerns over shallow river mouth conditions, which have increasingly affected boat movement during tidal changes. They said the situation not only hampers access to fishing grounds but also poses safety risks and reduces daily income opportunities. Environmental concerns were also highlighted, including reported oil spill incidents involving nearby vessels. Fishermen called for clearer reporting channels and faster response mechanisms to ensure that such incidents are addressed promptly to prevent damage to marine ecosystems and fishing areas. Seasonal monsoon conditions were also discussed, as fishermen face income disruptions during periods when they are unable to go out to sea. They urged a review of eligibility conditions for fuel subsidy schemes to ensure that weather-related restrictions do not unfairly affect their access to assistance. Other issues raised included the need for coastal breakwater structures to reduce erosion, improved access to fishing nets due to rising costs, and the construction of new jetties closer to fishermen’s settlements to reduce travel distance, cost, and time while improving local economic activity. Faizul said he welcomed the commitment by the LKIM Chairman to escalate the issues raised to the Department of Fisheries for further action, stressing the need for concrete follow-up rather than discussions alone. “As the Pakatan Harapan candidate for N39 Tanjung Surat, I want to emphasise that the welfare and rights of fishermen are central to my Seven Commitments for the people of Tanjung Surat,” he said. He added that if given the mandate, he would continue to champion fishermen’s rights, particularly on licensing, infrastructure, maritime safety, equipment assistance, and economic protection in a more structured and sustainable manner. “Fishermen are not only contributors to the seafood supply chain, but they are an essential part of the Tanjung Surat community who must be defended through clear policies, attention, and real action,” he said. “Johor Ke Depan, Vote HARAPAN,” he added. -- MINUTESMY

Sungai Rengit Fishermen Call for Stronger Protection and Urgent Action on Licensing, Infrastructure and Environmental Issues – Faizul Abdul Ghani

PENGERANG, JULY 6 — The welfare and long-term sustainability of fishermen in Sungai Rengit must be given serious and immediate attention, following a key engagement session between the Fisheries Development .... read more

JOHOR, JULY 6 -- The development of high-quality childcare centres is a crucial investment in Johor’s future, as the state seeks to strengthen both its economy and family wellbeing, said Pakatan Harapan candidate for N40 Tiram, Nor Zulaila. As a mother of two young children, she said true progress should not only be measured by investment figures or economic growth, but also by how well a state supports families in raising the next generation. “Johor today has more than one million children. This means every policy we implement must take into account the needs of future generations,” she said. She noted that Malaysia’s Department of Statistics (DOSM) data shows Johor recorded the highest growth in registered childcare centres (TASKA) in 2024, reflecting increasing demand for childcare services as more parents join the workforce. Sharing her personal experience as a working mother, Nor Zulaila said she understands the daily challenges faced by parents who must balance careers and family responsibilities. “I go through the same routine as thousands of other parents—sending my children before work and rushing back to pick them up,” she said. She stressed that childcare should not be viewed solely as a women’s issue or welfare matter, but also as an economic necessity. Access to quality childcare, she said, enables parents—especially women—to remain in or return to the workforce, improving household income and contributing to the state’s economic growth. Under Pakatan Harapan’s proposals, she highlighted plans to establish 250 MADANI childcare centres and workplace-based TASKA facilities across industrial zones, government offices, and communities throughout Johor. “The goal is not just to increase the number of childcare centres, but to ensure they are located closer to workplaces, reducing the daily burden on parents,” she said. She added that many women with skills and qualifications are forced to pause their careers due to limited access to suitable childcare. With proper support, she said, they can continue contributing meaningfully to both their families and the economy. “This is the spirit of Johor Untuk Semua. We want to build a state that grows economically while supporting young families, empowering women, and ensuring every child has the best possible start in life,” she said. She concluded that the best investment a government can make is not only in infrastructure, but in people. “By supporting parents, we strengthen families. By investing in childcare, we invest in Johor’s human capital,” she said. -- MINUTESMY

Quality Childcare a Long-Term Investment for Johor’s Future – Nor Zulaila

JOHOR, JULY 6 — The development of high-quality childcare centres is a crucial investment in Johor’s future, as the state seeks to strengthen both its economy and family wellbeing, said .... read more

SKUDAI, JULY 6 -- The spirit of bringing services closer to the people was highlighted during a community outreach programme in Skudai, where government representatives and community leaders engaged directly with residents through a casual kopitiam session and mobile service counter initiatives. Speaking at the programme, Kartiyaini Jeyapalan, said the approach reflects a commitment to ensuring that government services are more accessible, especially for those who may not have the time or means to visit government offices. “Closer to you. That is my approach. If you cannot come to the office, it is alright. We bring the office to you through our Mobile Counter. If you cannot attend talks, we come to you through casual kopi tiam sessions like this,” she said. She emphasised that informed decision-making is key, especially in the lead-up to the state election, noting that engagement sessions are meant to provide clear information on government initiatives, ongoing efforts, and future plans while also addressing public concerns directly. “Ultimately, the choice is in your hands. What matters is that decisions are made with sufficient information,” she added. During the programme, a Mobile Counter was also set up, allowing residents to check their eligibility and status for various government assistance schemes, including STR and BKJ, without having to travel to government offices. Kartiyaini highlighted the diversity of the Skudai community, noting that different groups require different approaches to engagement, from youth to senior citizens. She said inclusivity must be practiced, not just spoken about, to ensure no one is left behind. She also expressed pride in her team, noting that it reflects true inclusivity, with members ranging from 18-year-old youths to staff and trainees in their 50s and 60s. “We do not just talk about inclusivity. We practise it through action,” she said. She extended her appreciation to state assembly members Ho Chi Yang (Tanah Rata) and Woo Kah Leong (Pasir Bedamar) for joining the ground engagement efforts. “Together, we continue working to bring Johor forward,” she added. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: IG KARTIYAINI JEYAPALAN

Mobile Service and Community Outreach Bring Government Closer to the People in Skudai – Kartiyaini Jeyapalan

SKUDAI, JULY 6 — The spirit of bringing services closer to the people was highlighted during a community outreach programme in Skudai, where government representatives and community leaders engaged directly .... read more

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