Johor wants to build three major entertainment parks that will help it become a strong rival to Singapore in the future. 

Johor's Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, who is also the state Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman, said this in his speech during the launching of its manifesto for GE14 on Saturday (April 14). 

No backyard to S'pore

According to The Star, Mohamed Khaled said that they must "catch up to the lion":

"We want to be the new economic power house in the region and make Johor a competitor to all including our close neighbour, Singapore."

To do this, he said that they must "upgrade their tourism sector with new attractions":

"... if Singapore has Gardens by the Bay, we will build a new tourism centre at the Desaru coast worth RM4.5 billion.

In Singapore, they have Universal Studios but here, we will build the world’s first science fiction theme park near Legoland here."

He added that it is now the time for the "Southern Tiger" to show its "teeth and stripes".

He also said that he "would not be surprised to see Singaporeans coming to world class facilities available" in Johor once the projects are completed.

More than theme parks

Mohamed Khaled said that the "Johor Hi-5" manifesto has five core thrusts:

1. Economic growth;
2. Provision of comprehensive infrastructure;
3. Development of the mind, talent and skills;
4. High performance leadership;
5. Establishment of a sustainable, Islamic and cultured community.

According to The Star, the manifesto includes all aspects of the people's well-being, ensuring that "no Johorean will be left behind".

Priority will also be given to reducing the cost of living, improving housing and creating job opportunities. 

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M'sian netizens not impressed

However, many Malaysian netizens do not seem to be in agreement of the Chief Minister's plans.

Not the best way to compete with S'pore

Misplaced focus

Theme parks not that necessary to the locals

Alluding to the upcoming elections

Top image via Astro Awani/YT