KUALA LUMPUR — Past administrative failures have forced the federal government to shoulder nearly RM1 billion in annual debt to rescue Felda, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed last night.
Speaking at the Johor Youth Open Dialogue at Dewan Felda Ulu Tebrau, Anwar—who is also Finance Minister—stressed that his administration had no choice but to step in to protect the welfare of Felda settlers.
“Every year, we have to service nearly RM1 billion in debt,” Anwar said. “What did the settlers do wrong? During Raja Alias’s time, it was managed exceptionally well. Then others came and ruined it.”
Economic boom must benefit all
Turning his attention to the state’s future, Anwar voiced strong confidence that Johor is on track to become a regional economic powerhouse, likening its immense potential to Shenzhen, China.
This rapid growth is currently being driven by mega-projects like the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system, and the upcoming Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
However, the Prime Minister issued a stark reminder that physical development and billions in investments mean nothing if everyday citizens are left behind.
He emphasized that massive infrastructure projects lose their meaning if rural and fringe communities remain trapped in poverty.
Johor must change by driving greater state-level compassion to ensure that vulnerable and struggling populations are never sidelined.
Johor election campaign blitz
The dialogue marks part of a grueling seven-location campaign blitz ahead of the 16th Johor State Election.
A total of 172 candidates are currently battling for 56 state seats, with early voting beginning July 7 and final polling day set for July 11.
Pakatan Harapan (PH) is contesting all 56 seats, distributed among PKR with 20 seats, Amanah with 19, and DAP with 17.
Also present at the event supporting the campaign was Dr. Maszlee Malik, the PH candidate for Puteri Wangsa. – July 5, 2026