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JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Barisan Nasional (BN) has introduced AIRA (Artificial Intelligence Rakyat Assistance), an artificial intelligence-powered chatbot designed to provide voters with easier and faster access to information related to the coalition and the ongoing Johor state election campaign. According to BN, AIRA serves as a digital assistant that enables members of the public to obtain information through a user-friendly conversational platform. The chatbot provides information on BN's candidates for the National Parade, explains the coalition's election manifesto in simple language, outlines the benefits of supporting BN, addresses current issues, and highlights the coalition's policies and commitments to the people. BN said the initiative is intended to make election-related information more accessible while helping voters better understand the coalition's offerings throughout the Johor state election campaign. Describing AIRA as a smart and accessible digital assistant, BN said the platform is designed to bring information closer to the public through artificial intelligence technology. The chatbot is accessible through its dedicated website, where users can interact with AIRA and obtain information related to BN's campaign and policies. According to the campaign material, AIRA was developed by Lampu Percahayaan UMNO Malaysia as part of BN's digital engagement efforts during the 16th Johor State Election (PRU16). -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB SUARA UMNO ONLINE

BN Launches AIRA AI Chatbot to Provide Information Ahead of Johor State Election

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Barisan Nasional (BN) has introduced AIRA (Artificial Intelligence Rakyat Assistance), an artificial intelligence-powered chatbot designed to provide voters with easier and faster access to information .... read more

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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

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 .... read more

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

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 .... read more

PAGOH, July 8 -- Bandar Universiti Pagoh should be further developed with more sustainable urban facilities to transform it into a new engine of socio-economic growth, particularly for residents of the Bukit Pasir state constituency. To that end, Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Muhd Najib Lep is committed to enhancing the education hub if elected in the upcoming Johor state election, saying it is crucial to ensure the economic benefits are felt directly by villagers and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Muhd Najib, who is also secretary of the Pagoh division of Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah), said the full potential of Bandar Universiti Pagoh, which is home to four higher education institutions, including the Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) Pagoh campus and the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Pagoh campus, should be fully harnessed. However, he said the township appeared to have been left behind in terms of development as it still lacks essential amenities such as banking services and healthcare facilities. “Bandar Universiti Pagoh is crucial, and its development must be expedited because it will generate income for the local community, including villagers, SMEs and small business operators, thereby improving their incomes and standard of living,” he told Bernama. Beyond physical development, Muhd Najib, who won the seat in the 14th General Election (GE14), said providing affordable and conducive housing is among the key pillars of his agenda to help nurture an outstanding younger generation. He believes that a conducive home environment can help ease the financial pressures faced by families while providing children with a more comfortable setting in which to study and excel. Meanwhile, drawing on his nearly 13 years of experience in the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), Muhd Najib, who is also chairman of the Pagoh Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association (PVATM), is committed to continuing his advocacy for the welfare of military veterans. Among his key priorities is addressing the significant disparity in pension rates between military retirees who left service before and after 2013, which he described as substantial. With polling day drawing near, he expressed confidence based on the positive feedback and strong support he has received while engaging with voters on the ground. “Most of my work with the community began after my term as a state assemblyman ended. Alhamdulillah, the response and support I have received have been unwavering,” he said. Muhd Najib will face a three-cornered contest in the state election against the incumbent Bukit Pasir assemblyman, Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh of Barisan Nasional (BN), and Mohd Idzharruddin Mohd Nasirruddin of Perikatan Nasional (PN). The 16th Johor state election will see 172 candidates vying for 56 state assembly seats, with the outcome to be decided by 2,727,926 eligible voters this Saturday (July 11). -- BERNAMA 

Johor Polls: Muhd Najib Pledges To Turn Bandar Universiti Pagoh Into A New Economic Engine

PAGOH, July 8 — Bandar Universiti Pagoh should be further developed with more sustainable urban facilities to transform it into a new engine of socio-economic growth, particularly for residents of .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) will hold its Ceramah Harapan Grand Finale as the state election campaign enters its final phase, with party leaders expected to rally supporters ahead of polling day. The event is scheduled to take place on July 9 at 7pm at Jalan Hang Tuah 30, Taman Skudai Baru, where PH leaders are set to address supporters and share the coalition’s messages for the 16th Johor State Election (PRU16). In an invitation shared ahead of the event, PH called on supporters to maintain their enthusiasm and continue showing support as the campaign period approaches its conclusion. “Although the campaign is almost over, our spirit remains strong,” the message said, encouraging voters and supporters to attend the final campaign gathering. The grand finale rally is expected to serve as one of PH’s final platforms to engage with voters, highlight key issues, and strengthen support ahead of polling day on July 11, 2026. -- MINUTESMY

Pakatan Harapan to Hold Grand Finale Campaign Rally in Skudai Ahead of Johor Polls

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) will hold its Ceramah Harapan Grand Finale as the state election campaign enters its final phase, with party leaders expected to rally .... read more

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 

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 .... read more

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 

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 .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has praised the successful organisation of the Johor State Election (PRN) Dialogue, describing it as an important platform that encourages democratic engagement and the exchange of ideas. In a statement today, Fahmi said he was grateful that the dialogue, jointly organised by Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), Astro Awani and Sinar Harian, proceeded smoothly last night. “Alhamdulillah, the Johor PRN Dialogue organised jointly by RTM, Awani and Sinar Harian went well last night,” he said. Fahmi congratulated the organising teams for creating a space that allows democracy and the exchange of views to continue flourishing, particularly in the lead-up to the state election. He said programmes of such nature played an important role in providing opportunities for constructive discussions and enabling the public to better understand different perspectives on issues affecting the people. “Hopefully, programmes like this can continue to be held in the future,” he said. The dialogue is part of efforts to promote a healthy democratic environment by encouraging open discussions and greater public participation ahead of the Johor state election. -- MINUTESMY

YB Datuk Fahmi Commends Johor Election Dialogue, Says Platform Strengthens Democracy

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has praised the successful organisation of the Johor State Election (PRN) Dialogue, describing it as an important platform that encourages democratic .... read more

BATU PAHAT, July 8 — Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has called on voters in Batu Pahat to give their support and trust to Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates contesting in the 16th Johor State Election. Speaking during the BN Johor Election Campaign Tour covering the Senggarang, Rengit and Semerah state constituencies, Onn Hafiz said the strong response and warm reception from the people reflected the spirit of unity and togetherness among Johoreans. He said the tour provided him with the opportunity to engage directly with residents from various backgrounds, listen to their aspirations and understand the issues affecting them. “Throughout this tour, I had the opportunity to meet and greet the people of Johor from different walks of life, listening directly to their views and hopes, while witnessing the spirit of togetherness that continues to exist for the future of our beloved state,” he said. Onn Hafiz described the unity shown by Johoreans of various races as a strength that must continue to be preserved, adding that the spirit of “Bangsa Johor” reflected the people’s commitment to living together harmoniously. “In Johor, we are one big family. BN will continue to assist and defend the interests of all people without discriminating based on background,” he said. He urged voters to support the BN candidates contesting in the Batu Pahat area, namely Fared Khalid for N.17 Semerah, Zulkurnain Kamisan for N.18 Sri Medan, Mohd Yusla Ismail for N.24 Senggarang and Zaidi Japar for N.25 Rengit. Onn Hafiz expressed confidence that the candidates possessed the necessary experience, integrity and understanding of local issues to effectively represent the people. “I believe these candidates have the experience, integrity and understanding of the people’s needs in their respective areas. Give them the opportunity and trust to serve, bring forward the people’s voices and fight for their welfare and future,” he said. He also called on supporters and voters to ensure BN’s victory in the state election, while praying that all efforts undertaken throughout the campaign would be eased and blessed. “May Johor continue to be blessed with peace, prosperity and progress under the guidance of Allah SWT,” he said. The 16th Johor State Election campaign has seen political parties intensifying their outreach programmes across the state as candidates seek the mandate of voters to represent their respective constituencies. -- MINUTESMY

PRN Johor: Dato Onn Hafiz Highlights BN’s Commitment to Serve Batu Pahat Voters

BATU PAHAT, July 8 — Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has called on voters in Batu Pahat to give their support and trust to Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates .... read more

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi has called on voters in the Tiram constituency to support Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Abdul Halim Suleiman in the Johor state election. Speaking during a campaign event in Tiram, Onn Hafiz said he was encouraged by the strong turnout from local residents, describing the support and enthusiasm shown by Johoreans as a source of motivation for BN as the campaign enters its final days. He urged voters not to be complacent, stressing that every vote would be crucial ahead of polling day on July 11. Onn Hafiz highlighted the Johor government's achievements over the past four years, saying the state had recorded the highest investment value in Malaysia, achieved economic growth above the national average and introduced various development and welfare initiatives that have benefited the people. He added that while significant progress had been made, there was still much more to accomplish, and appealed to voters to give BN a renewed mandate to continue implementing its development agenda for Johor. Onn Hafiz also urged residents of the Tiram state constituency to place their trust in Abdul Halim, expressing confidence that the BN candidate would continue serving the people effectively if elected. He concluded by calling on Johoreans to vote for Barisan Nasional in the July 11 state election, saying the coalition remains committed to ensuring stability, progress and continued development for the state. -- MINUTESMY

YAB Dato Onn Hafiz Calls for Strong Support for BN Candidate in Tiram Ahead of Polling Day

JOHOR BAHRU, July 8 — Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi has called on voters in the Tiram constituency to support Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Abdul Halim Suleiman in the .... read more

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