Johor seeks RM1 bil federal funds to revive economy

Johor Menteri Besar Hasni Mohammad says no group will be left behind as the state revives its economy. (Bernama pic)

ISKANDAR PUTERI: The Johor government is to ask the federal government for an allocation of RM1 billion to revive the state economy, which has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Menteri Besar Hasni Mohammad said the allocation is especially important for small and medium enterprises in the manufacturing sector, which is one of the biggest contributors to Johor’s economy.

The decision to seek federal funds was made at the inaugural meeting of the Ibrahim Johor Economic Council, which has been set up to look into the economic affairs of the whole state.

“We will meet with the finance ministry to explain why we need the allocation,” he told reporters after chairing the IJEC meeting, which lasted three hours.

The council also considered the formation of a unit to coordinate the disbursements of funds under the economic stimulus package by national agencies, and a special task force to facilitate business.

Hasni said the discussions will provide guidance for the preparation of the 2021 Johor budget, which will be tabled in the state assembly later this year.

“’The discussions focused on assistance for the SME, health and tourism sectors. We will ensure that no groups are left out, regardless of whether they are in the urban or rural areas,” he said.

Among those present at today’s meeting were representatives from state corporations, Petronas, Iskandar Regional Development Authority, Khazanah Nasional Bhd, Malaysian Institute of Research and private enterprises. - FMT