ISKANDAR PUTERI: The state government should establish Johor Economic Council to assist its administration in planning rapid and sustainable development appropriate with its position as Singapore’s neighbour.
Gambir assemblyman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the council should be represented by economic experts and industry players from various sectors.
Muhyiddin, who is also Home Minister and Pagoh member of parliament, said Johor has huge potentials to benefit from economic development based on its encouraging current economic performances, including those in service, industrial and tourism sectors.
“I would like to suggest the setting up of Johor Economic Council to assist the state government in planning rapid and sustainable (growth) in economy.
“Johor’s proximity to Singapore, as well as good infrastructures and transportation network has the potential to attract more investments.
“I believe the council, acting as an adviser to the state government in economic development planning, would help boost the economic growth which would be beneficial for the people in the state, in general,” he said in his speech during the winding up session at the state’s 14th legislative assembly sitting on Wednesday.
He also suggested that the state government took a more aggressive approach in promoting Johor as the top destination for foreign investments.
“The state government must create an investment-friendly policy, apart from providing assurance that the investments would be protected by the laws that are free from influence by any parties with interests,” said Muhyiddin, who made a return as an assemblyman after 22 years.
He last made an appearance in the state legislative assembly when he was the state menteri besar, a post he held between 1986 and 1995.
He was last seen at the state legislative assembly on June 28 when he was sworn in as Gambir assemblyman before taking one month sick leave.