UMNO's Kukup constituency state assemblyman, Dato’ Zahari, has been elected as the Speaker of the 16th Johor State Assembly.
The 59-year-old Zahari was nominated by Johor Menteri Besar Dato’ Onn Hafiz during the 16th State Assembly meeting, citing Standing Order 2(1), and the motion was seconded by Bukit Permai state assemblyman Dato’ Mohamad Jafni.
Prior to this, Zahari served as the Chairman of the Johor Agriculture, Agro-based Industry, and Rural Development Committee and has been the Kukup state assemblyman since 2018. He successfully defended his seat in the state election held in July this year, defeating Pakatan Harapan candidate Noraziyah Mohamad Radzi by a majority of 8,600 votes.
After being officially elected and donning the Speaker’s gown, Zahari delivered his inaugural address, expressing gratitude to the Menteri Besar and all state assemblymen for their trust in him.
He stated that he would carry out his duties with diligence and a high level of dedication.
“Being elected this time is an honor, but also a major responsibility. I will fulfill the entrusted duties to the best of my abilities in accordance with the oath I have taken.”
Zahari also expressed, on behalf of all assembly members, his highest respect and gratitude to the previous Speaker of the 15th Johor State Assembly, Dato’ Mohd Puad, and former Deputy Speaker Dato’ Samsu Bari, for their contributions and efforts during their tenure.