ISKANDAR PUTERI: Barisan Nasional will not work with DAP if it is given the mandate to form the state government after the coming state election, says Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
The Johor Barisan chairman and caretaker Mentri Besar said the state's political landscape differs from the situation at Federal level, adding that the coalition had never governed alongside DAP in the state.
"I would rather not be the Mentri Besar than sit at the same table with them. Johor and the Federal government are different realities.
"We should remind Bersatu that DAP was with them in the state government," he said during the launch of Barisan's election machinery for the Johor Election at EduCity Indoor Stadium here on Sunday (June 7).
He urged voters not to be swayed by claims linking Johor Barisan with DAP.
Onn Hafiz said allegations that a vote for Barisan was equivalent to supporting DAP as slander, adding that the people of Johor should remain calm and make their decisions based on the coalition's track record governing the state.
He also defended the state's Bantuan Kasih Johor initiative, saying the aid programme had benefited various groups, regardless of race.
He questioned criticisms directed at the latest phase of the programme, noting that earlier phases received little opposition despite providing aid to the people. He expressed hope that the assistance initiative could be continued and expanded if Barisan returns to power.
Calling on Johoreans to preserve the state's long-standing harmony, Onn Hafiz said the state's four million residents should reject divisive rhetoric.
"Don't judge us based on what we say, judge us on what we do," he said.
Onn Hafiz also addressed questions over his decision to dissolve the Johor state assembly on June 1 despite its term not expiring until next year.
He said the timing was carefully considered, noting that holding the election later could clash with several major events and seasonal factors.
Onn Hafiz pointed out that Hari Raya Aidilfitri is expected to fall around March next year and February coincides with Chinese New Year celebrations.
In addition, he said the year-end monsoon season, which often brings floods to parts of Johor, would make it less suitable for an election.
"Johoreans understand these realities because they experience them every year. Those outside the state may not fully appreciate these challenges," he said.
