JOHOR BARU: All potential state executive council members must be vetted and declare their assets before their appointment, says the Johor Sultan.

       Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan ？skandar said a thorough background check should be done earlier by the police and Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

       “The academic qualifications of the potential exco members should be examined, too.

       “In the event that the appointed exco members cannot carry out their tasks well in future, the mentri besar should quickly replace that person,” he said after meeting Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.

       The meeting between the Ruler and the newly-appointed Mentri Besar lasted for close to an hour.

       Sultan Ibrahim also said those who are not selected as an exco member should not feel discouraged as everyone can still give their best service.

       “The election has ended and this is the time for all elected representatives to close ranks and work together to make Johor prosperous.

       “Holding on to (former Johor mentri besar Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad)’s words, there is no political ideology and political party more important or prominent than the state of Johor Darul Ta’zim,” said the Ruler.

       The Ruler added that he always prioritised the rakyat and so should the elected representatives when carrying out their services to the people.

       “The same goes to the mentri besar, who should concentrate on his tasks and responsibilities to the state and its people. Do not be subservient to anyone.

       “In these early stages, Onn Hafiz should work with Hasni and get his views or advice,” the Sultan decreed.

       Machap assemblyman Onn Hafiz was sworn-in as the 19th Mentri Besar before Sultan Ibrahim at Istana Bukit Serene here on Tuesday (March 15).

       He took over from his predecessor Hasni following the recently concluded Johor election where Barisan Nasional recorded a landslide victory, winning 40 seats out of 56 state seats.