Muar hosts national month launch, honouring Johor's patriotic contributions

New Straits Times

27-07-2025

MUAR: Johor's Bandar Maharani being chosen as the venue for this year's National Month and Jalur Gemilang launch is a strong recognition of the state's historical, patriotic, and economic contributions to the nation.
Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi described the launch in Muar as "no coincidence," noting that the district was the cradle of the country's independence movement.
"This is not merely a launch venue. It is a symbol of honour, a tribute to Johor's deep-rooted spirit of patriotism and nationhood," Onn Hafiz said in his speech today.
Held at Dataran Tanjung Emas, the event was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Also present was Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
Onn Hafiz expressed gratitude to the prime minister and federal administration for choosing Johor, saying the decision reflected mutual trust and a renewed synergy between federal and state governments.
In his speech, he welcomed key federal announcements, including the RM100 SARA aid for 22 million adults, the new RM1,700 minimum wage, reduced RON95 petrol prices, and the expansion of Rahmah Madani sales, calling them concrete steps towards easing the people's burden and realising true independence.
"Real freedom isn't just about being rid of colonisers. It means escaping poverty, coping with living costs, and living with dignity in our own land," he said, adding that the theme Malaysia Madani: Rakyat Disantuni (Protecting the People's Welfare) resonates strongly with Johoreans.
Citing recent data, Onn Hafiz revealed that Johor secured RM30.1 billion in approved investments in Q1 2025 alone, a significant jump from the previous year.
"The state's gross domestic product grew by 6.4 per cent last year, surpassing the national average.
"These are not just numbers. They reflect Johor's status as not only the economic driver of the south, but one of the key engines of national growth," he said.
He expressed confidence that continued collaboration with the federal government would further strengthen Johor's path towards becoming a progressive and compassionate state.
Calling for a renewed spirit of national unity, Onn Hafiz urged Malaysians not to let the Jalur Gemilang remain a mere ornament.
"Let it live in our hearts as a symbol of struggle, freedom, and dignity. And fly the Johor flag with pride, because this is where our strength began," he said.
He reminded the people that the current generation bears the responsibility to preserve and uplift the legacy left by those who fought for independence.
"Let Johor not only be a state that develops, but one that unites. Let it not just be advanced, but honourable."