GEORGE TOWN: There is no urgent need to hold a snap election at this juncture as the government should remain focused on addressing the needs of the people and steering the country through mounting global economic challenges, says Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Chow said Malaysia is facing a difficult period amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, including rising tariffs and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, which have affected resource supplies and energy prices worldwide.
"Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwaf Ibrahim has previously stated that there is no pressing need for a general election because the government's priority is to focus on the people's needs first.
"We understand that the country is currently facing a highly challenging phase due to changes in the global geopolitical landscape. Issues such as tariff increases and the conflict in the Middle East have further worsened the situation, particularly in terms of resources and energy prices, which have significant implications for the country," he said after announcing the 18th edition of George Town Heritage Celebration (GHTC) here on Saturday (June 6).
Chow said the Prime Minister was likely seeking to utilise the remaining term of the current administration to strengthen the country's position and address pressing economic and development issues.
He noted that the Federal Government still has about one-and-a-half years remaining in its mandate, while the Johor state government has several months left and Negri Sembilan an even longer period before their respective terms expire.
"Given the time available, there may be no necessity for a snap election. The existing mandate should be used to focus on national issues and development priorities," he said.
Chow said Penang is aligned with the federal government's approach and would support any decision deemed best for both the state and the nation.
"I have said before that we will abide by whatever decision is made and what is best for the state and the country.
"Penang still has about two-and-a-half years remaining in its term, so there is no overwhelming urgency to call for a snap state election at this juncture," he added.
On Thursday (June 4), Anwar dismissed concerns over a string of looming elections, and said that his focus now remains on governing the country and delivering results to the people.
The Johor state legislative assembly was dissolved on Monday (June 1), paving the way for the 16th state polls.
Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced the dissolution of the state assembly after receiving the consent of the Johor Regent.
On Thursday night, Negri Sembilan Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun announced at a special press conference at his official residence that the state assembly had been dissolved effective Friday to pave the way for the 16th state election.
Political analysts expect Melaka to follow suit soon and suggest the 16th General Election (GE16) would be imminent after that.
