ISKANDAR PUTERI, Aug 27— Buloh Kasap assemblyman Datuk Zahari Sarip has been sworn in as the Johor state assembly Speaker following his appointment to the post.

The 59-year-old former Johor Agriculture, Agro-Based Industry and Rural Development Committee chairman was earlier proposed by Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi at the Johor state assembly sitting today.

The proposal was also supported by Bukit Permai assemblyman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor.

Zahari replaces Datuk Mohd Puad Zarkashi, who has held the Speaker position since the previous Johor state election in 2022.

Mohd Puad, who is at odds with the state Umno leadership, previously announced his departure from the party on June 25.

Zahari expressed his appreciation for the trust that the menteri besar had placed in him.

He said that he would carry out his duties with full responsibility and dedication.

Zahari, representing Barisan Nasional (BN), successfully defended the Buloh Kasap state seat in the recent Johor state election.

He garnered 14,054 votes to defeat his opponent, Rozy Razit from Pakatan Harapan (PH), who obtained 5,454 votes.

In the July 11 state election, BN retained its mandate in Johor after winning a super-majority of 48 out of 56 state seats.