Malaysia PM Urges Johor Migrant Workers to Vote, Warns Against BN Resurgence

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has issued a strong appeal to Johor's migrant workers, urging them to return to their home state to cast their ballots in the upcoming 16th state election. Speaking at a rally in Serom, Anwar emphasized that the current voter base in Johor is insufficient for a Pakatan Harapan (PH) victory. He acknowledged the typical challenge of low turnout in state polls, often exacerbated by voters working outside Johor and facing logistical hurdles with election dates. "We tell them to hold the state election on a Sunday, they hold it on a Saturday. We want to do it at the end of the month, after they get paid, they do it at the beginning of the month," he noted, highlighting the difficulties faced by voters. Despite these challenges, Anwar expressed confidence in the determination of Johor voters, both within and outside the state, to drive change. He stressed that the timing of the election, whether Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday, or Friday, is less important than the people's resolve. The Prime Minister also issued a stark warning, suggesting that a victory for Barisan Nasional in Johor could embolden them to regain control of the federal government. "If Barisan Nasional wins this Johor state election, it will make them proud and they will want to control the country again," he stated, urging voters to prevent this outcome by starting the change in Johor.