Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim calls for local traders and micro-entrepreneurs to be prioritised in railway station projects, especially in rural areas, to create inclusive economic hubs.
JOHOR BAHRU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for greater prioritisation of local participation in every phase of developing the country’s railway station network, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas.
He said new stations should be viewed not just as transport infrastructure but as emerging economic hubs with the potential to attract investment and generate opportunities for local communities.
“We want to ensure that food stalls in the surrounding areas are upgraded, while housing, job opportunities and other initiatives which benefit the people are further expanded,” he said at the launch of the Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double-Track Rail Project.
Anwar said this compassionate, targeted approach is what sets the MADANI Economy apart, requiring a guiding hand from the government supported by the private sector.
He cited Johor, which is recording robust economic performance with investments nearing RM100 billion, as an example that must leverage the potential of small railway stations across its network.
“Johor has established itself as a strong economy, but our economic approach must translate into higher incomes for the people and more inclusive development,” he said.
The 192-kilometre Gemas-Johor Bahru project includes the construction of 11 new stations designed to reflect Johor’s identity and heritage.
Anwar expressed pride in the project’s completion, describing it as a model for national development in transport infrastructure.
He said the federal government is now adopting a more inclusive approach by incorporating input from state governments into all development planning, including the national budget.
This emphasises a deliberative process where federal leaders engage directly with state administrations before any policy is finalised.
The event at the Kempas Baru station was also graced by the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
