3-term Buloh Kasap rep is new Johor assembly speaker

Johor's legislative assembly has elected Zahari Sarip as its new speaker, marking a milestone in the political landscape of the state. The 59-year-old, who has served as the assemblyman for Buloh Kasap for three consecutive terms, was nominated by the chief minister, Onn Hafiz Ghazi, during the inaugural meeting of the 16th Johor legislative assembly held at the Sultan Ismail Building in Kota Iskandar. The nomination was seconded by Bukit Permai assemblyman Jafni Shukor, and no other candidates were put forward.

This marks a shift in leadership, as Zahari replaces Puad Zarkashi, who had held the speaker's position since April 2022 until the dissolution of the 15th Johor assembly in early June. Prior to his appointment, Zahari had been the chairperson of the Johor state agriculture, agro-based industry, and rural development committee. He has represented Buloh Kasap in the assembly since 2018, and his re-election in the July 2023 general election solidified his position with a substantial majority of 8,600 votes over his Pakatan Harapan opponent, Noraziah Razit.