MUAR: The Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar yesterday declared Bandar Maharani here as the Royal Town of Johor.
The sultan made the proclamation at the state-level Maulidur Rasul celebration at Masjid Jamek Sultan Ibrahim.
He also called on the people to care for their town, including ensuring its cleanliness, and not leave everything to the Muar Municipal Council.
Earlier, Sultan Ibrahim, accompanied by Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman, and Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Razali Ibrahim, led a 2.6km procession by about 3,000 people to mark the Mauludir Rasul event.
Meanwhile, Abdul Ghani said the proclamation of Bandar Maharani as a royal town was a recognition for the town known for its pre-war buildings and architecture.
“His Royal Highness has been visiting this town because of its scenic beauty at the river mouth of Sungai Muar,” he told reporters.
When asked on the state government’s plans for the royal town, Abdul Ghani said any development programmes would be tailored to the town’s status. Razali also welcomed the proclamation, saying he would discuss with local leaders on how to develop the town further in line with its new status.
He hoped that the local community would play their role in taking care of the royal town. — Bernama