Leaving A&PSA, Development in Pahang | The Malaya Times

4th June 2099

Relocating Foreign Embassies

• Johore will relocate all foreign embassies currently situated in the capital, Iskandar Puteri Jaya, to Kuala Lumpur temporarily. This move is deemed necessary to boost economic potential and streamline administration, in addition to alleviating pressure amidst the bustling capital. Prime Minister Muiz stated that within the next 3 to 5 years, these embassies will commence operations in the new capital city of Mahmudiyyah. 
• Furthermore, it has been announced to both local and international media that several countries have agreed to open embassies in both Johore and their respective countries, namely La Plata, The Netherlands, and the Ajako Confederation.

Development of The East Coast

• A special mission will be undertaken by Prime Minister Muiz's cabinet to develop underdeveloped areas to enhance the economy and living standards of the people. One of the focuses of this cabinet is the lack of attention on the east coast of the Malay Peninsula compared to the west coast. The west coast is dotted with major cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Seremban, Melaka, and Ipoh, which are more popular compared to cities on the east coast.
• This issue gained attention with the establishment of the new capital, Mahmudiyyah, which is set to be developed in the generally less developed east coast. Therefore, a goal has been set to concentrate development efforts on the eastern states collectively referred to as the 'East Coast'.
• The first step taken is renaming the 'East Coast' to Pahang, which has been approved by Sultan Faris Salahuddin. Current plans are focused on improving logistics and accessibility in the state. While there are high-speed railway routes such as the East Coast Rail Line (ECRL) and the East Coast Expressway (ECE), ports in Pahang, namely Kuantan Port and Kerteh Port, are relatively small compared to Singapore Port and Port Klang.
• Several initial projects with an initial fund of 10 Billion OBD have been approved: 1) Expansion of Kuantan Port and Kerteh Port 2) Development of industrial zones 3) Development of small towns located in less accessible areas 4) Development of the agriculture sector through large-scale vertical farming techniques 5) Expansion of Kuantan Airport 6) Improvement of the railway network in Pahang.

Stringent Control in Palawan

• Palawan, an island state located in the South China Sea, has been closely guarded by military forces. According to Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Harun Yaakob, tight control has been enforced in Palawan, with national security forces always on high alert against any threats to the state. Its geographical position sandwiched between the Philippine islands and Borneo makes it vulnerable to foreign powers.
• Palawan has been evacuated after its residents were given notice by the JRMC, and it has remained deserted since February 2099, except for the presence of security forces. Defense efforts have been intensified, including the use of surface-to-surface and surface-to-air guided missile systems. Additionally, the Johore Royal Navy (JRN) continues its stringent patrols using small-sized missile ships (not cruisers etc.) to bolster maritime defense operations.

New Immigration Policy

The Johore Immigration Department has announced that individuals holding dual citizenship must carry both of their passports when traveling into Johore. This was reaffirmed during last week's parliamentary session amidst debates over individuals hiding behind their dual citizenships. Consequently, this requirement came into effect yesterday. However, their visas only need to be from one of their respective countries of citizenship.

Other News

• Johore left A&PSA
• "We will not be involved in world conflicts for the time being," said the military chief.
• Security control along the Estoreasia - Johore border has been tightened.
• The Immigration Department and police are conducting security checks at entry gates, as well as inside terminals at airports and ferry terminals.
• The navy is testing cruise missiles from the Singapore Strait towards the northeast of the Riau Islands in the South China Sea. 
• Public universities will establish important study programs to meet the skilled workforce needs of the country.