Johor traders benefit as weaker ringgit attracts more Singaporeans, says MB

JOHOR BARU: Johor is much more attractive for Singaporeans to come and spend due to the weak ringgit compared to the Singapore dollar, says Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.

He added that there were many positive signs that the state’s economy was improving, especially around the city since the reopening of the Malaysia-Singapore land border on April 1.

“Alhamdulilah, the reopening of our borders is giving a positive impact as we can see major traffic congestions, due to the heavy presence of both local and Singapore registered vehicles, which is a good signal for Johor’s economy.

“The reopening of the two countries’ border coincides with Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations with many Singaporeans coming here to shop, which is welcoming for local traders,” he added.

Onn, who is also the Machap assemblyman, said this in a press conference after launching the state-level Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama) Semarak Syawal programme held at Pasar Tani Datin Halimah here on Saturday (April 30).

He said that the weak ringgit has not only given an advantage to Singaporeans but benefited local traders as well.

“It is cheaper for Singaporeans to come here and spend as they have bigger purchasing power and this will make Johor more attractive for them. This would be very good for traders with them coming over here to do their shopping.

“However, I do hope and pray that the inflation and currency issues will only be temporary and our ringgit can come back stronger,” he added.