Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the people of Johor to elect leaders who demonstrate integrity, wisdom, and humility when entrusted with power, stressing the importance of protecting the welfare of ordinary citizens and marginalised communities. Speaking at a Pakatan Harapan rally in Muar on June 15, Anwar highlighted how the choice of leaders fundamentally shapes a state's trajectory, yet warned that certain factions resort to exploiting racial divisions to garner support without delivering results once in office.
Anwar cautioned voters against politicians who stoke hatred and division, imploring them to consider the broader implications for the nation and future generations. "For politics to succeed, people must read and listen," he said, emphasising that leaders must avoid arrogance after winning elections and instead dedicate themselves to addressing public concerns, particularly those affecting vulnerable populations.
The Prime Minister stressed that Pakatan Harapan's victory in this Johor State Election (PRN) is essential for aligning state policies with the Federal Government's development objectives. Coordination between state and federal authorities, he explained, ensures that major initiatives—including infrastructure projects and economic programmes—deliver tangible benefits to grassroots communities rather than remaining confined to paper.
Anwar pointed to major undertakings such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and expansion of the Port of Tanjung Pelepas as projects driven by federal efforts. While acknowledging the state's contributions, he emphasised that federal execution has been crucial to their progress. He pledged continued federal support for such initiatives, provided the state government prioritises the welfare of ordinary Johor residents through better governance and representation.
Ahead of the July 11 election, Anwar appealed to all Johor voters, including those living elsewhere, to return and participate in the state election. He stressed that every vote carries weight in driving policy transformation and ensuring economic growth benefits reach ordinary people comprehensively.
