Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim disclosed on July 4, 2026, that the federal government is saddled with nearly RM1 billion in annual debt from the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) due to past administrative failures [1, 2]. "Every year, we have to service nearly RM1 billion in debt. What did the settlers do wrong? During Raja Alias's time (Tun Raja Muhammad Alias Raja Muhammad Ali), it was managed well. Then others came and ruined it," Anwar said, highlighting the decline in Felda's management following leadership changes [1].

The government must continue this financial burden to protect the welfare of Felda settlers, underscoring the urgency for a resolution [1, 2, 3]. Anwar called for a fair and comprehensive solution to Felda settlers’ long-standing problems, particularly regarding land ownership and second-generation housing, after meeting with Felda management [4]. He stated, "During today's meeting (with Felda representatives), I stressed that all long-standing issues need to be resolved comprehensively and fairly, particularly those involving second-generation housing and settlers' land ownership" [4].

Amid these challenges, Anwar also addressed the socioeconomic needs of Johor’s rural and fringe communities. He emphasized that physical development projects like the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, and the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) should not ignore poverty reduction [1, 2, 3]. "Our responsibility is clear: Johor must change. The state is advanced and full of potential, but we need to be more compassionate towards those struggling," he said [2].

The 16th Johor State Election is set for July 11, 2026, with 172 candidates contesting 56 state seats. Pakatan Harapan (PH) is fielding candidates in all seats—20 from PKR, 19 from Amanah, and 17 from DAP [1, 2, 3].

In related news, Felcra Bhd announced its first interim profit payout for 2026 totaling RM126.9 million to over 72,000 participants, marking a 7.6% increase compared to last year. The increase was credited to higher production output and a 12% reduction in operating costs, despite a decrease in average crude palm oil prices from RM4,600 to RM4,367 per tonne [5]. Felcra CEO Mohamed Ismi Abdul Majid said the payout supports participants’ welfare and educational expenses, noting, "Many participants’ children are now pursuing studies at higher education institutions, so this distribution can be used to support those educational expenses" [5].

Felcra’s second interim profit payout, covering May to August 2026, is expected to be disbursed in November following account closing [5].