Johor election shows Malay unity strengthens political power, says Mahathir

Former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad sees the recent Johor state election results as clear evidence that Malay unity can bolster the community's political standing. He noted that while the specific form and mechanisms of this cooperation remain unclear, it should be embraced as a positive step towards strengthening Malay political unity.

"Although the form of cooperation is still vague in terms of form and ties, we must accept it as a step towards togetherness to strengthen the political power of the Malays," Mahathir stated on his Facebook page. The Johor election saw Barisan Nasional win 48 out of 56 state seats, with UMNO securing 36.

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Although the form of cooperation is still vague in terms of form and ties, we must accept it as a step towards togetherness to strengthen the political power of the Malays.

Mahathir cautioned that this newfound political strength must be used to elevate the status of Malays, Islam, and defend national sovereignty. He emphasized that this power is not intended to suppress or deny the rights of other ethnic groups but rather to foster shared harmony and well-being.

"When Malays unite and have political strength, it gives them confidence to fight for their community's interests without questioning the rights of other races," he said. Mahathir also expressed his view that the approach adopted since Malaysia's independence has successfully brought prosperity to all ethnic groups, including Malays. Therefore, he reiterated the need for continued Malay unity and strengthened political power to safeguard the nation's sovereignty and land rights.

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When Malays unite and have political strength, it gives them confidence to fight for their community's interests without questioning the rights of other races.