JOHOR BAHRU, July 3 — Barisan Nasional (BN) respects Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) manifesto for the Johor state election, said BN Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The Deputy Prime Minister said that as a democratic nation, BN welcomes proposals from parties contesting the election.

“I have looked through the manifesto and we respect what they are proposing,” he told reporters after the Leadership Engagement Session with parents of Tabika Kemas Bangsa Johor at the Larkin Court 1 flats here today.

Also present were Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and BN candidate for the Larkin state seat Mohd Hairi Mad Shah.

PH today launched its manifesto featuring 10 offers, which include the Johor Health Scheme, deposit assistance for first-time homebuyers, a RM500 million fund to empower youth development, and initiatives to strengthen the education sector.

Earlier in his speech, Ahmad Zahid said the BN manifesto is backed by the state government’s track record of excellence in the previous term, when it fulfilled more than 90 per cent of its promises.

He said the BN manifesto is comprehensively drafted to serve all segments of society without sidelining any race or social group.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Rural and Regional Development Minister, said the benefits cover all stages of life, from expectant mothers, children and school pupils to university students, as well as single mothers and fathers.

“As long as anyone resides in Johor, they are considered part of Bangsa Johor and will receive the same benefits,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid also assured that he will continue to support Johor’s development as long as he leads the ministry.

The Johor state election involves 172 candidates contesting 56 state seats, with polling day on July 11 and early voting on July 7.

For the latest updates on the 16th Johor state election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/johor/. — Bernama