Today Online 19 Mar 15;
KUALA LUMPUR — It is a strategic necessity for Johor to continue its land reclamation activities just off the coast of Singapore, said the Malaysian state’s Sultan Ibrahim Ismail, who also defended his business activities by saying his monthly state allowances of RM27,000 (S$10,139) were not enough to live on.
The Sultan said controversial property developments were on track, and added the state is the future for ordinary Malaysians and Singaporeans who are being priced out of housing elsewhere.
In an interview with The Star newspaper, the Sultan said the reclamation activities must be continued because while there is plenty of land in Johor, the coastline is strategic.
“People only talk about reclamation by Johor, but not many are aware that land reclamation in Singapore reportedly started as early as the 1820s during the colonial era,” he said. “Singapore has reclaimed over 70 sq km of land from 1960 to the present ... (and) with continuing land reclamation, Singapore’s land area will increase by about another 100 sq km by 2030.
“To put it bluntly ... if Johor does not carry out reclamation, Singapore will and it has been doing so ... Johor has to do this because it is strategically necessary.”
In defending his business interests, the Sultan said he believes it is healthy for royalty to engage in legitimate businesses and that he has never tried to hide his business dealings.
“I have to earn my living like everyone else. I cannot depend on my allowances of RM27,000 a month. I must earn a living, like ordinary Malaysians,” he said.
The Sultan also noted that the Johor royal family has a long history of doing business, starting with gambier and black pepper in the 1800s.
In addition to his business dealings, the Sultan welcomed the controversial 1,386 ha Forest City property project and said housing development in the state would benefit Malaysians and Singaporeans who find housing in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore too expensive.
He added that Chinese investors should not be singled out for criticism.
“The Chinese investors have the confidence and foresight to believe that their money is well spent,” said the Sultan, referring to Guangdong-based developer Country Garden Holdings, which has partnered with Johor state-owned Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor for the Forest City project.
“It is their risk, but they believe in the strategic position of Johor.”
Forest City is a mixed development to be built on four reclaimed islands between south-west Johor and north-west Singapore.
The Sultan also addressed concerns that Johor is facing an excess of housing supply, saying the fear of a glut is only an assumption.
“Some people talk about a glut in high-rise property units in Johor Baru. The Chinese developers are not going to build 80,000 units simultaneously. Only 8,000 units are being built now,” he said. “Not all these house buyers are from China as there are also locals, especially from Penang and Kuala Lumpur. There are also Singaporean buyers.”
“The future is in Johor because Singaporeans, not just Chinese, will be buying homes in Johor. Homes are already beyond the reach of ordinary Singaporeans over there,” he added.
The Sultan said Malaysia and Singapore could become like Hong Kong and the mainland city of Shenzhen, where people work in one place and live in another.
“Once the links are in place, it will become the norm for Singaporeans to live in Johor and work in Singapore,” he said. AGENCIES
Sultan of Johor speaks his mind
WONG CHUN WAI AND NELSON BENJAMIN The Star 18 Mar 15;
JOHOR BARU: Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar moved into Istana Bukit Serene weeks ago from Istana Pasir Pelangi and the interview with The Star was at the new official residence overlooking Singapore.
Driving up the road leading to the palace, it was amazing to see several huge cages on both sides, with tigers, panthers and cats inside them.
The edifice, some 2km away from the Jalan Kolam Air entrance, was perched on a hill and overlooked a huge swimming pool.
Standing there affords a bird’s eye view of the huge estate that is beautifully landscaped and full of lush greenery.
We were ushered into the interior of the grand palace, passing through a large hall area with ornate wooden furniture and chandeliers, and huge portraits of the Johor royal family adorning the walls.
Sultan Ibrahim was already there to meet us, wearing a sky blue short sleeved linen shirt and in a jovial mood.
“Go ahead and ask me anything,” he said as we all sat down.
And throughout the hour-long session, the monarch took all our questions, including tough ones on his business ventures, Chinese investors coming to Johor, the change in the state’s weekend, rumours of a casino and his son’s liver transplant in China.
On the coronation
Q: Tuanku, The Star extends its congratulations to you on your forthcoming coronation. Your Royal Highness, why is the coronation taking place only after more than four years?
A: I felt there was no need to rush. The coronation is not a legal requirement. It is more of a customary requirement, but it is deeply entrenched in tradition.
The Sultan of Johor is confirmed and proclaimed by the Council of the Supporters of the Country on the demise of the late ruler. The oath of the sovereign and the proclamation fulfil the legality of succession.
The coronation may be held at any time the sovereign so desires after the ascension. The coronation is not a legal requirement but a customary tradition to enhance the sovereignty or daulat and majesty of the Ruler.
There was also the refurbishment of the necessary places for the event, including the Istana Besar.
It is also pertinent to note that Sultan Abu Bakar was crowned on July 29, 1886, 23 years after ascending the throne.
It is politically correct to apply the term “coronation” to the Sultan of Johor because Sultan Abu Bakar commissioned a crown for himself in 1886, to be used at the coronation of his successors, making Johor the first state to have a crown. Rulers of other Malay states have an installation ceremony on their ascension.
Q: What are the events planned in conjunction with the Coronation?
A: At least nine major events have been planned for the ceremony, which starts on March 16. This is not just my celebration but also one involving the people of Johor.
The celebrations are scheduled to stretch up to one month, including visits to all the 10 districts in the state.
I have been informed that the Sultan of Brunei, Malay Rulers, Governors, close members of the Johor royal family, and the Prime Minister of Malaysia and Prime Minister of Singapore will be attending the celebrations. State dignitaries will also be invited.
Aside from official souvenirs, there will also be commemorative postage stamps and first-day covers on sale that day. Bank Negara is also issuing gold commemorative medallions.
Q: What are your wishes and hopes for Johor?
A: I hope that people from all races will unite irrespective of their religion and belief. This is our home and it belongs to all Malaysians. This state is the home of all Johoreans regardless of race and religion. The people should also appreciate the stability of the state and, of course, Malaysia. We live in a multi-racial society. We must respect each other.
There is no room for extremism in Johor. Please uphold the values and principles of moderation.
The moderation path is not a cliché but one that has been long practised.
There has to be mutual tolerance and respect. There cannot be extreme left or right views. That is why the middle path and moderation is the best way.
Moderation is not something new, but it is best that we give serious thought to this principle now. I am glad that The Star is carrying out this campaign.
I want all races to be taken care of. That is why I insisted on a Chinese councillor being part of my state executive council during the time when MCA had rejected government posts.
Johor is unique and that is why I want all my subjects, regardless of race, to be represented in the state government.
On the economic front, I am aware of the various challenges since last year but I believe that we will be able to face the numerous challenges ahead as one nation and 1Malaysia.
On business, development and reclamation in Johor
Q: Tuanku, your increasing business and commercial dealings have become a talking point. The Johor royalty is involved in a variety of businesses, including a power plant (the 1,000MW-1,400MW Project 4A) and property development in Johor. How does the royalty balance what is good for the people and the state when it has a personal interest in so many businesses?
A: If you look at the history of the Johor royal family, we have been involved in business from the days of my great-grandfather. I have never tried to hide my business dealings using proxies, like some people do. I am open and transparent.
Tracing the Johor royal lineage, you would have seen how the Johor royal family has a long history of doing business. It began with gambier and black pepper during the early days. The late Sultan Abu Bakar, who was known as the “Father of Modern Johor”, was involved in this business in the 19th century. The late Sultan Ibrahim (1895–1959) was involved in rubber planting.
I was doing palm oil business when I was the Tengku Mahkota. Don’t tell me that once I become the Sultan I have to stop everything. I believe it is healthy for royalty to be involved in proper and legitimate businesses rather than to be in dubious businesses that harm the image of the institution. I want to pass this trade to my sons as they need to learn.
There are plenty of business opportunities for everyone in Johor and Malaysia. We cannot be competing with everyone as it would be virtually impossible. The pie is enough for everyone.
Let’s be honest here, we are a constitutional monarch. I have to earn my living like everyone else. I cannot depend on my allowances of RM27,000 a month. I must earn a living, like ordinary Malaysians.
I am sure Johoreans do not want to perceive me as one selling titles for my income. It is unfair to say that the private sector would be crowded out.
Look at the number of private companies doing business in Johor. It is a free market. No one is forced to buy anything from anyone.
Monopoly does not exist in Johor.
Q: What are your views on claims that the land reclamation works will affect Singapore’s shoreline?
A: There is plenty of land in Johor but the coastline is strategic. People only talk about reclamation by Johor, but not many are aware that land reclamation in Singapore reportedly started as early as the 1820s, during the colonial era.
Of course, it was very small scale then, but I just want you to know the history. In the 1960s, land reclamation began to be carried out on a large scale.
Singapore has reclaimed over 70sq km of land from 1960 to the present day, I am told.
According to one report, by 1990 the total land area of Singapore was 633sq km. This was an increase of 51.5sq km, which made up 8.9% of the total land area. With continuing land reclamation, Singapore’s land area will increase by about another 100sq km by the year 2030.
I don’t know if these figures are accurate but it is a fact that the shape of Singapore has changed because of aggressive and systematic reclamation. To put it bluntly, and you know that I am a straight-talking person, if Johor does not carry out reclamation, Singapore will and it has been doing so.
Why is it that no one talks about Singapore doing this landfilling work? Why is Johor being singled out? Johor has to do this because it is strategically necessary.
Then, there is talk of the environment. I have done my checking. There is not a single dugong that would be affected; get your facts right. According to the MB, a 30-sen fee has been imposed for every square foot of land reclaimed to help fishermen affected by the reclamation. It will bring in over RM104mil to help the fishermen.
Q: The 1,386ha Forest City property project has become a controversy. Forest City will be almost half the size of Putrajaya and will rise in the Johor Straits, southwest of Johor Baru, where the Second Link to Singapore is situated. It is a joint venture between Guangdong-based Country Garden Holdings and the Johor state-owned Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor (KPRJ).
A: As the Sultan, I welcome all investors, just as the mentri besar would. It would be insane for anyone to reject investments.
The Chinese investors have the confidence and foresight to believe that their money is well spent. It is their risk but they believe in the strategic position of Johor.
If there are any Americans, Britons, Australians or Germans who would want to put money in Johor, they are welcome, but where are they? If the Chinese are prepared to invest here, why should it be an issue?
Anyway, all this investment is good for the state’s coffers as the state government has recorded a fourth consecutive year of surplus in its budget. I expect the surplus to continue to grow as more projects and investments come into the state.
I am also confident that more Singaporeans would be purchasing homes in the state due to the weak Malaysian currency.
All these investments will be good as this will have a spill-over effect for other sectors such as retail, more job opportunities for locals and for the transportation services.
I am sure major development projects like the one in Pontian will help improve the living standards of the district, which is famous for seafood.
Q: Johor has seen a few major Chinese developers launching large-scale property projects. One developer, for instance, launched 9,000 units at one go and most are to be sold to buyers from China. But a large number of units are not sold yet. There are concerns that Johor is seeing an over-built situation and possible creation of ghost cities. Local developers have also been speaking up about preferential treatment to these overseas developers. Please comment.
A: The fear of a glut is just an assumption. All these homes will not be built simultaneously. Why blame the Chinese for investing in the state? Presently, 80% of property in London belongs to foreigners.
I do not think the Chinese developers would build these homes and then leave them empty. Do you think that these Chinese developers have not done their calculations, including capital recovery and the projected returns on the investments?
Some people talk about a glut in high-rise property units in Johor Baru. The Chinese developers are not going to build 80,000 simultaneously. Only 8,000 units are being built now. Anyway, not all these house buyers are from China as there are also locals, especially from Penang and Kuala Lumpur. There are also Singaporean buyers.
The future is in Johor because Singaporeans, not just Chinese, will be buying homes in Johor.
Homes are already beyond the reach of ordinary Singaporeans over there.
It is a political issue when the middle-class find themselves squeezed. Even in Malaysia, with its abundance of land, the young are finding it difficult to own a home, especially in the Klang Valley and Penang.
Once the links are in place, it will become the norm for Singaporeans to live in Johor and work in Singapore. That is the future.
Thousands of Hong Kong residents and expatriates, including Malaysians that I know, stay in Shenzen but commute to work daily.
We are talking about investing in the future and these Chinese investors know the Hong Kong and Shenzen scenario very well.
Over 200,000 people cross to Shenzen each day in just 45 minutes. That is how the cross-border culture has changed dramatically.
I think local developers just have to work harder. I believe that healthy competition among the developers is good for the industry.
Q: Is it correct to say that not many people dare to speak up against your Royal Highness? There is fear and respect, all mixed together. After all, you do have a controversial reputation.
A: (Laughs) Well, you are asking me tough questions. I think I am a friendly and easy-going person. I am straight-talking. I cannot stand hypocrites. I expect people to speak up. Be a man. You have asked me difficult questions straight to my face.
A lot of people, including some politicians in Kuala Lumpur, don’t know me but talk as if they know me. There are those who have preconceived ideas of me. I don’t blame them.
Johor is the right of Johoreans and only Johoreans know the situation and needs of Johor. Why should there be outsiders who try to interfere and teach us about what we should do in our own state?
Among the issues I raised in the past was that the Federal Government’s suggestion of imposing a minimum price of RM1mil for property that could be purchased by foreigners, was only suitable to be implemented in Kuala Lumpur.
I suggested that foreigners be allowed to buy high-rise property valued at a minimum of RM500,000 but for landed property, they should only be allowed to purchase houses that are valued at more than RM2mil.
I have also criticised the Petronas’ oil and gas project in Pengerang, as the company was not giving enough opportunities for locals to handle contracts related to the project.
I also suggested that a special team be set up to appeal against the decision on Pulau Batu Puteh made by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
To me, the ICJ decision favouring Singapore on the island’s ownership was a result of “outsiders” handling the matter.
On his son, Tunku Abdul Jalil
Q: On a personal note, there has been speculation over the health of Tuanku’s son, Tunku Abdul Jalil ibni Sultan Ibrahim (pic), also known as Tunku Laksamana Johor. Can you comment, especially on his liver transplant?
A: He is fine and well after the transplant, thanks be to God. The next five years will be very crucial for him as he needs to watch his food and his lifestyle.
I am grateful that he is alive and that is one reason why I have put aside RM10mil to set up the Tunku Laksamana Johor Cancer Foundation to help fund cancer patients who cannot afford the expensive treatment.
My son is lucky as he is my son. I understand the agony when a person is diagnosed with stage four cancer. Even my son did not believe that he would survive and neither did I. I want this fund to be self-sustaining and others can also donate towards this foundation.
We only discovered the cancer last year as initially my son was complaining of shoulder pain and was only treated at the local General Hospital, which just provided him with pain killers and sleeping tablets.
We only discovered that something was wrong while holidaying in London. After discussing with surgeons from Singapore, we decided to go for a full organ transplant in Guangzhou, China. They told me not to waste any more time.
I am thankful that the procedure went well and we were well cared for when in China.
The Chinese went to great lengths to help my son. They sent two doctors to Singapore to talk with the doctors there. They provided English-speaking doctors and nurses.
They also provided other facilities for me there. I am greatly touched and grateful to them.
I also want to thank my subjects as I was deeply touched when informed that thousands of people from all races and religions came together to pray for my son and my family. All those prayers certainly helped him.
On the Johor weekend
Q: Will the Friday and Saturday weekend for the civil service still remain or does Johor, as a developing state, plan to revert to Saturday and Sunday to compete internationally, especially with so much talk about doing business with Singapore? Or will the private sector be forced to change to Friday and Saturday as well?
A: It’s already over a year since Johor has had Friday and Saturday as the weekend. The aim of the change is to enable Muslims to perform their prayers without having to rush back to their offices.
I understand it has its implications for the private sector as well as doing business with Singapore. I am still in the process of gathering feedback from the public and private sectors.
> TOMORROW: Sultan Ibrahim’s thoughts on royal awards, rumours about a proposed casino in Johor, his relationship with mentris besar past and present, and more.
‘It will be insane to tell investors not to come to Johor’
New Straits Times 22 Mar 15;
PROGRESS: Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar has been keeping a strict diet ahead of his coronation tomorrow. On certain days, his diet is made up of just fruits. He has shed some 20kg since January. As we walked into the newly refurbished renovated Istana Bukit Serene for a rare interview with him ahead of his big day, we could not help but notice a brand new hot pink Rolls-Royce Phantom parked in the driveway. The NSTP team was then ushered inside this grand, 78-year-old Art Deco palace with a green roof and limestone walls, topped with a 35m etre tower. The sultan, who was busy with the final fitting for the coronation costume with his tailor, Datuk Jack M.K. Lee, later emerged. After an hour-long interview with A Jalil Hamid and Jassmine Shadiqe, during which he addressed many controversial issues, ranging from his businesses to reclamation projects and the influx of top developers from China, the sultan then invited us for a sumptuous lunch. He indulged in a big plate of beef steak that day. But his mind was preoccupied with his son, Tunku Laksamana Johor Tunku Abdul Jalil, who had to be hospitalised. He then drove off alone in the Phantom to the hospital, with his security detail trailing behind.
ON HIS BUSINESSES, FOREST CITY AND TANJUNG PUTERI PROJECTS
Question: How do you respond to those who talk about Tuanku’s involvement in business while being a ruler of a state?
Answer: Is it wrong if I buy shares? What is wrong with buying shares? There is nothing wrong with me buying shares. I just buy shares but I do not sit on any the board of directors. For example, at REDtone International Bhd, I am not on the board of the directors.
(The Johor sultan is the single-largest individual shareholder in REDtone following a spate of open-market purchases, coupled with the conversion of his warrants and convertible loan stocks into ordinary shares. The recent activities have boosted his holdings in the company to 20 per cent from 4.8 per cent previously).
During In good times, if I think I can make money, I sell the shares. To me, there is nothing wrong with in me buying shares.
I bought Berjaya Times Square Sdn Bhd for a reason, basically, for its high-dividend returns. The returns are higher compared with commercial banks. I am a strategic investor. There is nothing controversial about this. Those who are bickering about this... it’s actually a case of sour grapes.
I am not a typical businessman. I am more of a strategic investor. I learn about the trade and I invest on the advice of my bankers. The bank is the custodian of my money. The bank makes sure that my money makes money. If the investment is bad, they will advise me not to do it.
When I see potential, I grab the opportunity. I do not bid for projects, like hydroelectric power, construction of airports, roads or similar facilities, because that will be interfering with others.
Forest City, which will be built in southwest of Johor, was my idea. I brought the Forest City investors in. The developers took into consideration my ideas. The investors visited the proposed site and established that it was strategically located. They have confidence in the government and me, and they are also comfortable here in Johor, which is peaceful, united and strategically located.
So what is wrong if developers from China want to invest in Johor? We have all the stability investors are looking for. We have an open-door policy; every reliable investor is welcome to invest in Johor. It will be insane to tell investors not to come to Johor.
The spill over effect will benefit the people. Forest City will create over 250,000 jobs opportunities for Johoreans. Via this investment, I am creating opportunities for retailers and upgrading our transportation system, among others.
The government, too, will benefit. They will receive fees in the form of annual assessments and quit rent, among others. The people should grab these opportunities. If they don’t, others will.
Question: Is the potential spin-off from Forest City huge?
Answer: It will be very huge. For those who are still unaware, my advice to them is to undergo a proper briefing and get have a better understanding.
Question: In other words, you are not actually a businessman, but an investor?
Answer: I am not like any ordinary businessman. I don’t go to an office or conduct day-to-day operations. I don’t attend meetings or conduct annual general meetings. I buy shares, I sell shares. I study about shares. I grab the good ones that have potential. For example, the Princess Cove project in Tanjung Puteri. Some people wanted the land for free to be injected to some major public listed companies. There were two people who wanted the land. I won’t name names. An independent evaluation was done on Tanjung Puteri and a price was offered based on the market value. I paid the government… above its market value (for the land). I rounded up the figure offered and made the government an offer that they could not resist. Only after securing Tanjung Puteri via a transparent dealing did I enter into a joint venture. I did not take the land free of charge. I paid extra for the land because I want the state government to make money, which will be channelled back to the people. That’s why I paid them extra.
Question: How much did the government want to sell it for?
Answer: If you look at the evaluation those days, it was not much. About RM100 million.
Question: Tuanku basically paid double for it?
Answer: Maybe? (smiling). Yes, I did.
Question: Eyebrows were raised when you sold Tanjung Puteri to China developer Guangzhou R&F. There were claims that you made RM4.5 billion.
Answer: Let me explain how this figure came about. I have a 30 per cent share with the joint-venture company. I foresee a RM100 billion gross development value (GDV). Under the normal industrial norms, you will make at least, even in the worst scenario, between 20 and 25 per cent in profits. So, I did basic arithmetic. What is 30 per cent of 20? That is six billion. That is the profit at the end of the day in 10 years by looking at the GDV. But, do I want to wait 10 years? Would I know when the market will weaken? I would not know. What happens if the joint-venture company starts to adjust figures? At the end of the day, profits can be adjusted.
I am not willing to take that risk. I asked for my profits in advance and in return, I offered them a RM1.5 billion discount. That is how RM4.5 billion came up. I did not sell but I took profit in advance. Get that?
Then, everybody thought: “Wow, this is the benchmark in Johor.” They were wrong. You cannot put a value of RM900 per sq feet.
Now, is there anything wrong with what I did? No! I didn’t lobby anybody. It was a transparent deal that will see Johor progress in the future.
Question: The one thing that people are unaware of is that you have given money back to the government, which was spent on development. Is that true?
Answer: Yes! What I have given to the government is RM845 million. Nobody talks about that. The cost of the land and the premium all went to the government. Why do you think my government is now enjoying a surplus (budget) today?
I have also been approached by China’s e-commerce giant Alibaba Group. They want to bring Alibaba to Johor. Johor will be the main distributor for Alibaba in the Asia Pacific region.
The company plans to bring branded apparel and accessories to Johor. They have the strength to do so.
Question: What will happen to Johor Premium Outlets (JPO)?
Answer: We are not bringing in something like JPO. We will be a technology hub. So, the technology hub only “handles”, without having retailers like JPO. All are premium items. They will set up their centres. I do not know how they operate. But we have heard about Alibaba. Some say they are better than Amazon.com.
Get it right. The way I do business is not like what people say: “He (sultan) is a businessman, conducting business.” No, I don’t.
Question: Why do we need to reclaim land to develop Forest City when there is a lot of land in Johor?
Answer: It’s easier. We reclaim land to develop. On shore, you have (to have) acquisitions. A brand new piece of land is easier to plan, even for better road distribution. Where can I find an existing piece of land here in Johor of that size which is surrounded by with water? So that’s why I plan. When I saw the place, I decided, here is the best place.
Question: What about marine life and environmental issues?
Answer: A lot of people are so jealous. They politicised Forest City because they are jealous. It’s a case of sour grapes. Forest City is a catalyst for to the state’s development and not a controversial one. Many people just want to make things difficult for us.
For instance, other developers are required to set up only one siltation control curtain (to reduce sediment run-off), but we were told to put up three layers of silt curtains. We abide by the rules. It doesn’t matter, even though it cost us three times more.
Question: One of the reservations came from Singapore. They said it narrowed the straits and restricted water flow, hardly without realising that they have been doing this way before us.
Answer: Singapore’s Tuas reclamation has breached into Johor’s port limit by so many metres… accidently. But we are a friendly state. If you say narrowing the straits, look at Tekong (Pulau Tekong, how narrow it is. I am not comparing Singapore with us, or what they can do and what we can’t do. We have our own plans and they have their own plans. I am sure Singapore followed all the rules. They are very strict on environment-related matters. They are checking on us, on what we are doing. It’s good that they check on us.
Question: Speaking of Singapore, is it true that Tuanku wanted to get rid of the Johor Causeway and build a bridge instead?
Answer: At the last meeting in Kuala Lumpur, what I heard was that the first bridge was nostalgic to former Singaporean prime minister Goh Chok Tong. I don’t know what Singapore’s plans are. But one day, I hope Singapore will agree with us, even if we need to remove part of the causeway for the flow of water and for the good of the environment. Yes, I would like that. Of course, a bridge is ideal. Besides that, we can build the most beautiful bridge. Let it be a landmark and we can call it the Friendship Bridge. Let the bridge show how friendly we are with our neighbours.
Question: Tuanku, you have said that a lot of things can be settled over a cup of tea with the Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, since you have a very good relationship with your neighbour. So, has this Friendship Bridge been discussed?
Answer: When it involves two countries, it must go through the Prime Minister’s Office, Wisma Putra and the also with their Singaporean counterparts. But any discussions between Johor and Singapore, for just the two of us to agree upon, then it can be decided over a cup of tea. Come to my house, have tea, as long as it is a win-win situation, we can discuss and agree on anything.
I know that there will be a need for a Third Link. I agree. But we need to know where. We need to plan where. It must be beneficial both to Singapore and Johor.
Question: Where will the Third Link be most likely located?
Answer: I think most likely it will be somewhere in Changi (Singapore) (chuckles). I don’t know. It is between the two prime ministers (Datuk Seri Najib Razak and Lee Hsien Loong). I don’t know and I don’t ask. I am sure if there is a need, the government will bring the matter up.
Question: Apart from the “Friendship Bridge” and the Third Link, how about the KL-Singapore High Speed Rail (HSR) project? It will have to pass through Johor. Do you support this project?
Answer: Well, it is in the planning stage. I know where the route is. I know where it’s going to be, but let the government announce it. Yes, it passes through Johor, they sought an audience with me.
Question: Who are the “they”?
Answer: The Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) chairman Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar. He didn’t seek my permission, it was a courtesy call. He asked for an audience to explain about the project and the route of the track in Johor that the rail will pass through. My advice to him was very simple. Reduce the (land acquisition. Don’t trouble the villagers too much. Don’t cause too much interruption to the lives of the people in the vicinity. The high-speed rail will be on the west coast of Johor.
ON SOARING PROPERTY PRICES
Question: Tuanku, can you share your views on the people’s concern that they may not be able to afford houses in JB in the future given the rapid development in the city?
Answer: It is in the government’s plan to make affordable houses available to those from the lower-income group. Not every Johorean cannot afford to buy a house. There are some who bought really big ones, extremely big ones.
But here we are talking about those from the lower-income group. The government must provide them with houses that they can afford. But would you build a low-cost house on in the most prime land in the state?
One would not expect the government to build “warongs” (make-shift stalls) in Beverly Hills, now? No, you won’t.
Question: So the people should not have unwarranted fears, as there will be houses for all income groups?
Answer: Yes, there should not be unwarranted fears or concerns. With future developments in Johor, it will be the people who will benefit. Now, you only see hypermarkets in Johor, but with the current and future developments, I am sure many stores, facilities and high-end outlets will set up their businesses in Johor. Developers in Johor want to bring in the Ritz Carlton, the Grand Hyatt, among others, to Johor. They want to bring in branded goods, such as Chanel, Hermes, Gucci and all to Johor. Who will benefit from all these, if not the people? Once you have a population of locals and foreigners, why should they go to Singapore, buy one handbag and come back to Johor, when they can buy it all here? Now, who benefits? Who gets the jobs? Johoreans.
So don’t have negative perceptions of the developments in Johor. Don’t think that if Johor develops, there will no longer be affordable houses. Don’t assume that Johor Baru will be turned into the biggest Chinatown in the world. The so-called comment by the Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia president Datuk Syed Ali Alattas… please ask him, did he sue the government for RM28 million? He wanted two acres of land in front of Lido beach for the Johor Malay Chamber of Commerce. It was Iskandar Waterfront Holding that paid the over RM20 million in compensation.
(Syed Ali was reportedly said saying he was is brave enough to say that there was not one shop in the centre of Johor Baru that is owned by a Malay.)
Question: There are some quarters, like Syed Ali, who are worried that the Malays will be left out, especially in Johor Baru, with the rapid development.
Answer: How many per cent of Malays are there now in Johor Baru? Do your research. There is the Urban Development Authority (UDA), developers Pelangi Sdn Bhd, among others, which are still in the city centre. They did not leave or move. They are further building up. Since August last year, more Malays have been buying properties but there are also many Malays selling their properties to make a good profit.
When did the standard of living in Kuala Lumpur rise? It’s an inevitable process. There must be balance. It has nothing to do with me.
Question: In a way, Greenland Danga Bay, Country Garden Danga Bay and R&F Tanjung Puteri are the catalysts for Johor’s development. Otherwise, Johor would remain a sleepy town.
Answer: Yes, catalyst. Do you want Johor to have the reputation of being the backyard of Singapore? We don’t want that reputation. You look at Hong Kong. What was Shenzhen then? A farming town. And look at it today. Via development, Shenzhen is what it is today.
ON THE JOHOR PROPERTY
BOARD ISSUE
Question: Talking about housing in Johor, what are the issues related relating to the Johor Housing and Real Property Enactment Board Bill 2014?
Answer: Why did it become an issue? Because those outside of Johor want it to become an issue. It was not an issue among Johoreans. What has it to do with Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim? Why does he want to comment on this issue?
(Shahidan had said the ruler should stay out of the state’s executive powers. He had reportedly said that was reported saying Putrajaya would not tolerate matters which breached the Federal Constitution, as Malaysia practises constitutional monarchy and not absolute monarchy.)
This enactment was established for me to take care of the people’s interest. With the enactment, I can call, I can check anytime. The same goes to with Johor Corporation (JCorp) and Yayasan Pelajaran Johor (YPJ). Both have enactments. Look at what happened to Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor (KPRJ), which comes under the Companies Act 1965 (revised 1973).
My role is to check and balance. The names of the housing board members will be chosen by the menteri besar and granted an audience with me, just as an introductionto introduce them to me. Apalah yang hendak dibisingkan? (What is all the ruckus about). Even the newspapers made a big deal about it. You all should be writing about the benefits instead.
Question: Is the bill going back to the state assembly?
Answer: You want to know the truth? I have not signed it and I will not sign.
What do we fear? Why must there be fear, or even pressure by non-Johoreans who are being nosy about Johor’s business? What do you think about this? Does this enactment concern you? I put this question to you. If it’s good, then it should be good. I can ask for an audit at any time I want. I can dismiss three officers appointed by me or the menteri besar. If we see that he is not suitable for the job, we can let go off him. That’s all. I do not want to sign the enactment. Ask all the non-governmental organisations NGOs in Johor, do they want me to sign it or not? None of them want me to sign it and I represent my people.
ON HIS CORONATION
Question: Tomorrow, Malaysians will witness your coronation. What is the legacy that you want to leave as the Sultan of Johor?
Answer: I want change in Johor. We are living in a new millennium. We have to change. Johor has to progress to be even better. And change. I want a lot of changes, including the people’s mindset. There is a need to change the attitude and mindset.
For example, I spent lots of money to build the crown arch in front of Istana Bukit Serene as a gift to the people, a landmark for Johor.
But every morning, we need to sweep the area. There is rubbish strewn all over — straws, plastic containers, including leftover food. Please change this attitude of throwing rubbish everywhere. I have always reminded the people that the government’s role is not to pick up your rubbish. Enough warnings have has been given to them to change this attitude. There are enforcement officers. They should take action against those who throw rubbish indiscriminately. These people don’t seem to care for the environment either.
ON HIS TIES WITH THE MB
Question: For changes to be implemented there should be close cooperation with the menteri besar. How would Tuanku describe your relationship with Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin?
Answer: We have a very good relationship. At times, I share my ideas and views with him, and vice-versa. At times, he likes them, and at times, he gives his views. I have a good rapport with Datuk Seri Khaled. He knows how to talk to me. He was based in Kuala Lumpur when he was higher education minister. When he returned to Johor, he did not know Johor as well as I do. What does he know about Sungai Endau? He does not know the nooks and crannies in of Johor as I do. I am the one who knows. Sometimes, when he wants to do something, I will ask him: “Datuk Seri, do you know the background?” Most of the time, he doesn’t know, and I would share it with him.
When I was the Regent when Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Sultan Ismail was the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and I was the Tunku Mahkota, I did my rounds. I did more checks and rounds in every nook and cranny of Johor, more than any politicians did. I know Johor very well, like the back of my hand.
My Kembara Mahkota Johor, for the past 14 years, reached out to the people in the rural areas, in really deep areas. That’s why I know and understand the people’s sentiments.
Sometimes, when he (Khaled) doesn’t remember or gets ill advice from others, I will tell him: “Datuk Seri, you better rethink what you want to do.”
But I have never stopped him or told him what to do. We advise each another on what is best for Johor and its people. Although I have given Khaled the thumbs up, he has is yet to reach A+-plus.... it is a learning process. (laughs)
Question: Tuanku, will you make any announcement during your investiture ceremony at Istana Besar on March 30, which will see some changes?
Answer: What did you hear? (laughs). From now on, March 23 will be a public holiday in conjunction with the Sultan’s birthday, (it will) no longer be November 22.
The reason , as you know, (is because November is during the monsoon season, hence, most programmes preparations are usually cancelled due to the weather. So from now on, March 23 will be a public holiday replacing Nov 22. On Nov 22, there will be a tahlil ceremony only.
Question: So what happens if one day, you become the Yang di-Pertuan Agong?
Answer: What makes you think I want to be the Agong?
Question: By rotation?
Answer: When the time comes, then you will know if I want or don’t want to be the Agong. I don’t dream to be the king. If it’s possible, I don’t want to be one.
What is of utmost importance to me are my subjects. If they need my help, I can be at their service. I belong to Johor and my subjects. I like staying here in Johor.
Question: How does Tuanku view the role of the monarchy in this modern era?
Answer: In our country, every ruler has his own traditions, ways and styles. We must respect their respective traditions and customs. I respect all the Malay rulers’ traditions, customs and their ways. In their respective state, they have the power, so who are we to pass comments? We respect them, accept them and don’t question them.
Question: Tuanku, how many datukships are expected to be awarded during your investiture ceremony on March 30?
Answer: One, or maybe two. I am stingy with my datukships (laughs). Merit counts. When you deserve to get something, you get it. Those who made a few donations, built a bus stand, nope, that would not grant you a datukship.
The first to who will receive datukships are state government officers. Those who are qualified and deserving. For businessmen, let’s see what they have done for the people.
If it benefits the people, then maybe, but most of them already have datukships, why give some more?
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