Kempas baru: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for greater prioritisation of local participation, including petty traders and micro entrepreneurs, in every phase of developing the country's railway station transport network, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas. Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, emphasized that new railway stations should be seen not only as transport infrastructure but also as emerging economic hubs with the potential to attract further investments and generate opportunities that directly benefit local communities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stated, "We want to ensure that food stalls in the surrounding areas are upgraded, while housing, job opportunities and other initiatives which benefit the people are further expanded." He highlighted the unique approach of the MADANI Economy, which focuses on development that reaches a level of pride while requiring compassion and targeted interventions from the government, with support from the private sector, including major companies. Anwar made these remarks at the launch of the operationalisation of the Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double-Track Rail Project, an event graced by the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, at the Kempas Baru station.

Also present at the event were Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and Transport Minister Anthony Loke. Anwar pointed out that Johor, currently experiencing robust economic performance with investments nearing RM100 billion, must leverage the potential of small railway stations across the network. He asserted that while Johor has established itself as a strong economy, the economic approach must translate into higher incomes for the people and more inclusive development.

Regarding the Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double-Track Rail Project, Anwar expressed pride in its completion, describing it as a model for national development in transport infrastructure. He noted, "Transport networks are essential for nation-building. We need airports, ports and highways. We are now close to completing our core infrastructure, and the challenge ahead is to ensure that the benefits are fully enjoyed by the people."

The 192-kilometre Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double-Track Rail Project includes the construction of 11 new stations, each designed to reflect Johor's identity and heritage. These stations span four main districts - Segamat, Kluang, Kulai, and Johor Bahru - with the line culminating at JB Sentral. Anwar also mentioned that the federal government is adopting a more inclusive approach by incorporating input from state governments into all development planning, including the preparation of the national budget and the Malaysia Plan. He added that the government's approach emphasizes a deliberative process, with federal leaders engaging directly with state administrations to gather views, suggestions, and concerns before any policy is finalized.