From Singapore commutes to affordable housing: What Johor election manifestos promise voters

To address poverty, BN will allocate RM500 million to help low-income families increase their earnings through education, skills development and targeted social assistance.

Regarding infrastructure, BN plans to build at least one mini water theme park in each local council and install 10,000 new streetlights statewide to improve safety. To support the low-carbon economy, the coalition aims to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure to 1,245 units by 2030.

For the younger demographic, BN offers a rental deposit assistance scheme and the construction of 1,000 Rumah Orang Muda Johor using a rent-to-own model for those under 35. Other pledges include a RM200 subsidy for B2 and Class D driving licences for youths from households earning below RM5,000, and a RM100 million boost to the Johor Youth Education Fund for TVET and professional certifications.

Deputy Prime Minister and Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi delivers a speech during a gathering with the Indian community at Perling Mall in Johor Bahru on July 2, 2026. — Bernama pic

Pakatan Harapan: Regional integration and cost of living

On its side, PH highlights the economic relationship between Johor and Singapore. A primary initiative is the goal to bring 20,000 professionals working in Singapore back to Johor by 2031.

To reduce travel times, PH pledges to halve cross-border commuting durations by integrating the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, BAS.MY and KTM’s Electric Train Service (ETS).

The PH employment strategy targets 250,000 quality jobs (50,000 annually) and a 30 per cent increase in median wages. This growth is intended to be driven by the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), AI, the digital economy and green technology.

PH also proposes RM1 billion in funding for over 50,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including the digitalisation of 20,000 existing businesses.

In healthcare, PH aims to introduce a Johor health scheme providing up to RM100,000 annual coverage for 500,000 Johor residents from the B40 and M40 groups, as well as persons with disabilities.

Housing remains a key battleground. PH promises to build 80,000 affordable homes (16,000 annually), describing this as the largest housing project in the state’s history. First-time homebuyers would receive an RM8,000 incentive, while 50,000 others would benefit from a rent-to-own scheme.

For families, PH pledges a RM1,000 savings incentive for every child born in the state and a RM500 million Johor Youth Fund for 50,000 young families. They also propose a RM50 public transport pass to improve mobility.

Others in the race

Other parties are also presenting their platforms to voters.

Parti Bersama Malaysia, contesting 15 seats, has released a five-point service pledge instead of a full manifesto. The party seeks to act as a “credible opposition” rather than form the government, focusing on housing rights, public transport and state spending oversight.

Within Perikatan Nasional (PN), PAS is contesting 11 seats and will likely provide targeted offers for specific constituencies instead of a formal manifesto. Coalition member Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia is contesting 16 seats, but has not yet released its manifesto.

The Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) is contesting four seats with its “Kontrak Muda Johor 2026” manifesto. Its 15 pledges focus on political reform, the cost of living and environmental sustainability.

Polling will be held on July 11, with early voting taking place today.