Zahid Pledges Strong Federal-State Alignment for Johor if Barisan Nasional Retains Power
PONTIAN: Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has pledged that Johor will continue working closely with the Federal Government if the coalition secures a fresh mandate in the upcoming Johor state election, saying strong cooperation between both administrations is essential for sustaining development and delivering public services effectively.
The Deputy Prime Minister said political stability and continuity in governance remain critical factors in ensuring that development initiatives can be implemented efficiently for the benefit of the people.
Speaking at a gathering with Johor Community Development Department (KEMAS) personnel at MRSM Tun Dr. Ismail in Pontian, Ahmad Zahid said voters should be confident that a BN-led Johor administration would remain fully aligned with Putrajaya should the coalition continue governing the state.
“I am confident that if the people continue to support our candidates and renew their mandate for Barisan Nasional, Johor’s state government will continue to work hand in hand with the Federal Government for the benefit of all Johoreans.
“There should be no concern that Johor would somehow be disconnected from the Federal Government. I give my assurance that the close cooperation between both administrations will continue if we are entrusted with another mandate,” he said.
Also present at the event was KEMAS Director-General Datuk Hanafiah Man.
Ahmad Zahid said development planning requires close coordination between federal and state governments to ensure that projects, investment initiatives and public programmes can be implemented smoothly without unnecessary delays.
He also urged voters not to be influenced by claims suggesting that only certain political parties are capable of maintaining effective relations with the Federal Government.
According to him, BN is itself part of the Unity Government at the federal level, making cooperation between Johor and Putrajaya a natural continuation should the coalition remain in office after the election.
He added that a stronger electoral mandate would provide the state administration with greater confidence to implement policies and long-term development programmes aimed at improving the wellbeing of Johor residents.
Addressing the election campaign, Ahmad Zahid called on all political parties and candidates to conduct themselves responsibly throughout the official campaign period.
He stressed that mature political competition, mutual respect and compliance with election regulations are essential in preserving public order and demonstrating the country’s democratic maturity.
The Deputy Prime Minister also expressed appreciation to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Election Commission (EC) and other government agencies involved in ensuring that the electoral process proceeds in an orderly and secure manner.
Beyond election-related matters, Ahmad Zahid acknowledged the contribution of KEMAS personnel in community development, particularly in rural areas.
He said the government values the department’s role in strengthening grassroots communities and indicated that proposals to improve the salary scheme for KEMAS employees would be submitted for further consideration.
According to him, improving the welfare of civil servants remains an important component of the government’s broader effort to enhance the quality of public service delivery while supporting national development objectives.
He reaffirmed that continued cooperation between Johor and the Federal Government would remain a key priority should BN receive another mandate from voters in the state election.
