JOHOR BAHRU, Dec. 11 -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has said state input is now an integral part of the Federal Government's development planning process, as this helps ensure policies meet the needs of the people.

He said today that Putrajaya no longer relies on assumptions, with state perspectives now incorporated directly into national planning.

"Such a close cooperation marks a major change in the way the federal government designs its national development," Anwar said during his opening address at the launch of the Gemas-Johor Bahru electric train service (ETS) at KTMB Kempas Baru Station here.

"The relationship allows for development plans to be adapted and this is evident in Johor, which is now one of the largest con...