JOHOR BAHRU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's first working visit to Johor following his appointment is hoped to boost ties between the federal and state governments.

Deputy Local Government Development Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said this following the warm welcome by state leaders, including Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and state secretary Tan Sri Azmi Rohani, in the presence of over 3,000 Johorians during Friday prayers at Kampung Melayu Majidee Mosque here today.

"He told me to arrange it for Friday prayers, and out of so many mosques, Kampung Melayu Majidee Mosque was chosen as Anwar had officiated the groundbreaking ceremony in 1995.

"I am also thankful to the Menteri Besar for coming to welcome the Prime Minister, with the hopes that ties between the federal government and state government can be boosted," he said.


Akmal Nasrullah also said that he had the opportunity to discuss the flood situation in Johor during Anwar's visit, adding that the prime minister said the federal government was committed to flood mitigation efforts, such as those in Segamat.

"The details will follow, along with the issue of flash floods in Johor Bahru city," he added.

The prime minister had previously spent almost an hour enjoying lunch together with the local community and leaders at Restoran Murtabak Kampung Melayu Azo 96.

-- BERNAMA