High-paying jobs, affordable housing attract Johor voters

MUAR: Pakatan Harapan’s promise of new high-paying jobs, housing initiatives and a healthcare scheme in its manifesto for the Johor state election has caught the attention of voters across the state.

Several voters interviewed by FMT said the proposals could benefit the people, but that their success would ultimately depend on effective implementation.

PH has pledged to create 250,000 new high-paying jobs by leveraging the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, with key sectors including artificial intelligence, green technology and other high-value industries.

The coalition also plans to implement coordinated efforts to narrow the development gap between districts while creating well-paying jobs throughout Johor.

Abdullah Mohamad, 24, a voter from Penggaram in Batu Pahat, said the initiative could help curb the outflow of talent from Johor to Singapore and other major cities, allowing young people to remain in the state and contribute to the development of their home towns.

“I hope the jobs and salaries offered will be commensurate with the current high cost of living,” he said.

Seah Boon Thong, 67, said the initiative would address the migration of Johor’s youth to Singapore and other urban centres, where salaries are generally considered more attractive than those available in their home towns.

“Salaries must be reasonable for fresh university graduates and those completing technical and vocational education and training,” said the voter from Tangkak Jaya in Ledang.

Sabariah Ali, 62, from Kampung Istana in Batu Pahat, welcomed the housing initiatives, including an RM8,000 deposit assistance scheme for first-time homebuyers and the construction of 80,000 affordable homes over five years.

“I think it’s a good offer, but we also need to consider how much the houses will cost.

“If the prices remain beyond people’s means, even with a deposit assistance scheme, home ownership will be unattainable,” she said.

Norlilawati Harun, 58, from Parit Raja, said the healthcare initiatives in the manifesto should be a priority, particularly for vulnerable groups and those in need.

PH has proposed the Johor Health Scheme, which provides healthcare coverage of up to RM100,000 a year. The scheme is expected to benefit 500,000 eligible individuals from the B40 and M40 income groups, as well as people with disabilities.

“It could help people receive treatment more quickly and reduce their financial burden if it can be used at private healthcare facilities,” Norlilawati said.

Hamsiah Hashim, 49, from Penggaram, said the proposed RM1,000 grant for newborn babies could serve as the foundation of an education savings fund.

“Parents can continue adding to the savings every year so their children will have funds to pursue higher education,” she said.

Crystal Teoh, 48, from Tangkak, was particularly interested in the proposal to establish childcare centres in industrial areas, government offices and local communities.

“This will help women return to work, especially in areas where there is strong demand for childcare services,” she said.