Photo: Bernama
ISKANDAR PUTERI: Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar has called on the Federal Government to provide a special allocation to the state to repair infrastructure and properties damaged by the floods.
His Majesty said the "extraordinary rainfall" for two days on Feb 28 and March 1 have displaced 74,453 people statewide to date.
He added that there are areas where floodwaters have yet to recede, especially in Batu Pahat.
"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," he said.
"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 home appliances.
"Don’t be stingy," he said in his speech when opening the second term of the 15th Johor state assembly sitting at Kota Iskandar here on Thursday (March 16).
Sultan Ibrahim also urged the people to practice environmentally-friendly habits as global climate change was one of the contributing factors to the floods.
Meanwhile, His Majesty also expressed his appreciation towards Anwar for listening to Johor’s wishes by including several development projects in Budget 2023.
Among them are the expansion of the Yong Peng-Senai stretch of the North-South Expressway and the Senai-Desaru Expressway in Pengerang.
He hoped the Federal Government could give some allocation to repair the Pasir Gudang Highway as well as Jalan Johor Baru-Mersing, which are laden with potholes that pose a danger to road users.
He also welcomed the Federal Government’s move to set up a financial zone in Iskandar Malaysia that could attract more investors to Johor.
"Congratulations to the government for placing first in the country with the most foreign direct investment of RM70.6bil.
"However, the investments have yet to be implemented so I want all quarters to work together and cut the red tape to ensure the developments are carried out soon and smoothly," he added.
