Under the watchful eye of Sultan Ibrahim, Johor is warmly embracing the 21st Century by turning itself into a high growth, socially progressive state that stands a chance at snatching the limelight away from Singapore as South East Asia’s crown jewel.

Many Malaysians are watching with great interest as the Sultan executes his plan to turn Johor Bahru into the second largest city in Malaysia. Already, catalyst projects like the Ibrahim International Business District, the High Speed Rail, the JB-Singapore Rapid Transit System and Coronation Square are set to increase the viability of making the state capital a global hub for commerce. Indeed, the Iskandar region has begun growing into the world-class city it was envisioned to be, with many multinational corporations set to move in.

But the Sultan also recognises that the development of his people must be prioritised. After all, Johoreans stand to gain nothing if multinational corporations take up residence in their midst but do not employ them. To that end, he has been a vocal champion of the need to put the focus back on English in our public schools. He recognises that proficiency in English is a necessity when one has to communicate with foreigners from all over the world.

His stance against racism will also play a role in the state’s societal development. On this issue, he is Malaysia’s most outspoken royal. The Sultan unequivocally rejects racism in his state, and most of his subjects would certainly agree that it has no place in the 21st Century Johor that he is building. As the state is due to see an influx of foreign talent, it is important that racism be rejected because it would impede growth. Racists can whip up resentment against newcomers. They can bring about a situation in which foreigners are seen as stealing jobs from the locals.

It is not hard to imagine Johor in ten years’ time as a Singapore with a soul. In his grand vision, Sultan Ibrahim sees his people and his state developing in a wholesome way, technologically, culturally and morally. It is quite a sight to behold.

With the Crown Prince sharing his father’s vision, one can expect Johor’s royalty to remain very much involved with the uplift of the state. As long as the Sultan does not veer off from his goals, and it is unlikely that he will, Johor will prosper.

There is leadership and there are people who call themselves leaders. Rarely does one find both in the same place. It takes a leader of exceptional leadership qualities to accomplish what Sultan Ibrahim has done for his state thus far, and he is far from finished.