Royal address: Sultan Ibrahim during the opening of the second term of the 15th Johor state assembly sitting at the Sultan Ismail Building, Kota Iskandar. — Bernama
ISKANDAR PUTERI: It is time to re-examine the use of the term “Opposition” to describe assemblymen who are not in the ruling coalition, says Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar.
The Johor ruler said that in place of “pihak pembangkang”, the term “pihak pengimbang” (balancing force) should be considered, where he added that the term “opposition” may no longer serve its purpose.
This is because, argued Sultan Ibrahim, the opposition’s role is more than just to merely oppose.
“These assemblymen play the role of check and balance to ensure the (state) government does not do as they please. However, refrain from seeking revenge or being nitpicky.
“I also have no issues with pihak pengimbang – they can seek an audience with me and give their ideas or views,” he said in his speech when opening the second term of the 15th Johor state assembly sitting in Kota Iskandar here yesterday.
Adding that he wants the stable political situation to continue for the benefit of the people and the state, Sultan Ibrahim said it has been a year since the state assemblymen were elected.
“I am satisfied with their behaviour and roles. I hope there will be no more returning to their old and unsavoury ways of behaving as such in the state assembly.
“I have also been monitoring the progress of the Mentri Besar and state exco members, whom I find to be doing well.
“Though there are those who lack experience, they have worked hard to prove their potential. They can come to me or the state’s administrative officers if they have any questions,” he said.
On the flood situation in Johor, Sultan Ibrahim reminded the people not to shy away from lending a helping hand to victims. The Ruler said the extraordinary rainfall on Feb 28 and March 1 had displaced 74,453 people to 379 temporary flood relief centres statewide.
The rainfall was almost twice the monthly average and there are still areas where floodwater has yet to recede, especially in Batu Pahat, he noted.
“I feel sad and sympathise with my people who have to face such challenging times. I hope they remain patient and strong to get through this test.
“I thank the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) and the federal government for channelling immediate funds and expediting the flood mitigation projects in Kota Tinggi, Segamat, and Batu Pahat to ease the people’s burden.
“I hope the federal government will also give a special allocation to the state to repair public infrastructure and properties damaged by the floods.
“I also call upon the public to lend a helping hand and contribute to help flood victims so they can repair their homes and replace their damaged furniture and appliances. Do not be stingy,” said Sultan Ibrahim.
He also thanked those involved in assisting flood victims round the clock, as well as those who contributed their energy, cash and essential items to help.
“I am proud of the collaborative spirit shown regardless of race and religion.
“This is the kind of culture that should be maintained,” he said, while also telling others to be mindful of climate change as it was one of the contributing factors to the floods.
