Malaysia's essence is rooted in federalism

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, said in a statement issued on behalf of the federal government, that Malaysia’s essence is rooted in federalism, a principle embraced by all states, including Johor.

The statement was issued in response to murmurs of discontent among a few Johor leaders regarding perceived unfair relations between the state and Putrajaya.

Today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s administration addressed calls from certain groups to reassess Johor’s ties with the federal government, asserting that no demand from state governments can override the Constitution.

Yesterday, an official request was submitted to Putrajaya, seeking to allocate 30 per cent of tax revenues back to Johor.

The official request, initiated by Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, was submitted to the federal government in response to a directive from the Regent of Johor, His Royal Highness Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim.

Tunku Ismail stated on Sunday (June 9) that Johor should receive a percentage, around 20 to 30 per cent, of the state tax revenue totalling RM48 to RM49 billion annually.

He mentioned that the revenue allocated back to the state would be directed towards people-centric development initiatives.