A Johor-based group Gerakan Pemikir Muda are objecting suggestions to extend the state's free bus ride scheme to foreigners.

According to the group's spokesperson Fikri Allaudin, the proposal by DAP's Yong Peng assemblyperson Chew Peck Choo at the state legislative assembly was a provocative one.

"The proposal does not make sense and is an insensitive one because, she is indirectly questioning the rights and priviledges of Malaysians, especially the people of Johor.

"The question is: Will there be other calls for privileges and facilities to be removed if the Yong Peng lawmaker's proposal was implemented? Is the Yong Peng lawmaker trying to bring the concept of equality to Johor?" asked Fikri.

Fikri also criticised Chew for using the Bas Selangorku programme - a free bus scheme not limited to locals - as a comparison.

"In Selangor, the Bas Selangorku can be used by foreigners. Do we want to squeeze and cram, which can cause safety issues, if we open Bas Muafakat Johor to foreigners?" he asked.

He said that Chew should focus her efforts on her constituents and not foreigners.

The Bas Muafakat Johor programme was launched last year. Users need to apply for a membership card, which costs RM10 annually, to ride for free.

Currently, the programme is running in Johor Bahru, Pasir Gudang, Kulai, Mersing, Muar, Simpang Renggam, Batu Pahat, Kluang, Pontian, Segamat and Kota Tinggi, Tangkak and Yong Peng.