JOHOR BARU: The coming year marks the start of Johor's "new dawn", says Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi as the state embarks on its journey to realise the Maju Johor 2030 vision.
Maju Johor 2030 is the state government's plan to become a developed state.
"But it is more than a vision. It is a promise - a promise of growth, unity, and improved quality of life for every Johorean while preserving our heritage and culture," Onn Hafiz told the New Straits Times.
He said this meant ensuring better healthcare, quality education, affordable housing, accessible infrastructure, and reliable public services for the people.
Onn Hafiz said that under the royal patronage of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, and the Regent of Johor, His Royal Highness Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, every party has a role to play in realising the Maju Johor 2030 vision.
"This year is our moment to shape a Johor we can all be proud of, a state where opportunity and prosperity are shared by all. Together, we will make this vision a reality," he added.
Onn Hafiz said last year set the foundation for a strong 2025 and that there was a lot to look forward to.
He cited the enhancement of Malaysia-Singapore bilateral ties, and Johor's ties with the island republic, via the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
The SEZ is aimed at creating a hub for investments and economic activities through the provision of multiple entry visas, special passes with green lanes, special tax incentives, exemptions for business licenses, robust infrastructure, and the availability of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.
A joint agreement is expected to be signed later this month.
Onn Hafiz also spoke on the progress of the Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS), slated for operation by Dec 2026.
The RTS will cut travel time to 15 minutes, while the introduction of passport-free travel using QR-based clearance is under proof-of-concept trials.
At the same time, Onn Hafiz said the state's reputation as a technology and innovation hub received a boost with over 40 applications to establish data centres in Nusajaya, Sedenak, and other districts.
Last year also saw developments on the infrastructure front, Onn Hafiz said.
He cited the commencement of the long-awaited expansion of the Ayer Hitam-Skudai stretch of the PLUS Expressway to six lanes.