JOHOR BAHRU (March 3): The change of government after the 14th general election (GE14) had resulted in a slowdown of economic development in Johor, said Barisan Nasional (BN) deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

He said many international investors postponed their plan to invest in the country including Johor following the uncertain political situation for several years apart from the problems caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The economic development was vibrant but stalled following a change of government. Everybody pulled their handbrake. Nobody wants to invest in a country with an uncertain future.

“For example, Aramco (Saudi Arabia) had planned to invest more than US$20 billion but halted its move after not feeling comfortable to go on with the investment in Johor with such a government,” he said when appearing as a guest in Suara Johor programme produced by Bernama TV on Thursday.

The UMNO deputy president said in fact, several contracts signed with foreign investors during BN’s administration were also cancelled after BN lost in GE14.

“Mega projects such HSR (High-Speed Rail), ECRL...in fact, we (BN) had agreed with the King Salman Centre for International Peace (KSCIP) worth RM500 million but it was canceled without any consultation,” he said.

He also stressed that as a result of the developments, the Johor State election was held so that the State is ruled by a more stable government that could focus on prospering the economy of Johor again.

Therefore, Mohamad hoped the people would give the alliance a chance to administer Johor with a comfortable mandate in the coming polls.

"We (BN) have a track record...We have proven it for more than 60 years, governing the State well and developing Johor. The State is also the gateway for development in the country. If Johor receives many foreign investors, Malaysia would also get more foreign investments.

“Such is the importance of Johor to the country. Therefore, the people of Johor must be careful in choosing a government which can revive the image and restores the dignity of the country,” he said.

BN is fielding candidates in all 56 State seats with 37 from UMNO, MCA (15) and MIC (four) for the State election scheduled on March 12.