JOHOR BARU, June 22 -- Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has reportedly urged federal authorities to entrust state leaders with the authority to approve and implement development projects more efficiently, amid hundreds of stalled construction plans in Johor.

Berita Harian quoted the Johor menteri besar proposing that his state be allowed to pioneer a decentralised model for project implementation, saying this could improve delivery and accountability.

"If they're not ready to implement this nationwide, let Johor be the pioneer," he was quoted saying.

"God willing, Umno and Barisan Nasional leaders in Johor will uphold their responsibilities with integrity, for the sake of religion, race and country."

He said a total of 222 development projects w...