Johor polls an opportunity to reject politics of hatred, says Malaysia's PM
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged voters to reject politics of hatred and division in the upcoming Johor state elections.
- He emphasized the people's desire for leaders focused on jobs, housing, education, and a secure future, not racial or religious sentiments.
- Anwar called for choosing a fairer, progressive, and dignified Johor under the Pakatan Harapan coalition.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on voters in the upcoming Johor state elections to reject "politics rooted in hatred, prejudice and racial or religious division." In a Facebook post on June 7, Anwar stated that citizens desire leaders who prioritize job creation, affordable housing, quality education, and a secure future, rather than those who exploit racial and religious sentiments for political gain.
The people want leaders who focus on creating job opportunities, affordable housing, quality education and a secure future. They do not want those who rely on racial and religious sentiments as daily political capital.
Anwar expressed strengthened confidence following the launch of the Pakatan Harapan election machinery in Batu Pahat, Johor. He observed a unity among Malays, Chinese, and Indians, all aspiring to build a fairer, progressive, and dignified state and nation. He urged voters to exercise their democratic rights wisely, reject divisive politics, and support leadership that promotes unity, safeguards public interests, and offers hope.
Highlighting Johor's potential, Anwar noted the Madani Government's continuous efforts to attract investments and accelerate development projects, while acknowledging room for further economic growth. Pakatan Harapan remains committed to ensuring projects directly benefit the people and that policies uplift lives and preserve dignity. Anwar stressed the non-negotiable importance of integrity in managing public funds, stating the country is too wealthy for its people to endure corruption and abuse of power driven by personal interests.
I urge you to reject divisive politics and support a leadership that promotes unity, safeguards the peopleโs interests and offers hope for the future. Choose a Johor that is fairer, progressive and dignified. Choose Pakatan Harapan.
The Johor State Legislative Assembly was dissolved on June 1, initiating the election process within 60 days. Similarly, the Negri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly was dissolved on June 5, following the Ruler's consent.
The country is too wealthy for its people to continue bearing the burden of corruption and abuse of power by leaders driven by personal and family interests.
Originally published by The Straits Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.