KUALA LUMPUR: The coming Johor state elections is an opportunity for voters to reject politics rooted in hatred, prejudice and racial or religious division, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
In a post on his official Facebook page on Sunday (June 7), Anwar said the people want leaders who focus on creating job opportunities, affordable housing, quality education and a secure future.
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They do not want those who rely on racial and religious sentiments as daily political capital.
Commenting on the launch of the Pakatan Harapan election machinery in Batu Pahat, Johor, on Saturday (June 6), Anwar said the gathering has strengthened his confidence.
He noted seeing Malays, Chinese and Indians united by a common aspiration to build a fairer, progressive and dignified state and nation.
"With the Johor state election just weeks away, I urged voters to exercise their democratic rights wisely.
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"I urge you to reject divisive politics and support a leadership that promotes unity, safeguards the people's interests and offers hope for the future.
"Choose a Johor that is fairer, progressive and dignified.
"Choose Pakatan Harapan," he said.
Anwar said he was grateful for the overwhelming turnout, despite the event being organised at short notice.
"This reflects the people's desire for a mature, clean and future-oriented political landscape.
"Johor is a state rich in potential and opportunities.
"Continuous efforts by the Madani Government have attracted investments and accelerated strategic development projects but there remains significant room for the state's economy to grow," he said.
Pakatan Harapan remained committed to ensuring that every project undertaken would deliver direct benefits to the people, while policies must uplift lives and preserve dignity, Anwar said.
He stressed that public funds must be managed with integrity and responsibility.
"I acknowledge that not all issues can be resolved within the government's three-and-a-half years in office but integrity is non-negotiable.
"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," he said.
Last Monday (June 1), Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced the dissolution of the 56-seat Johor State Legislative Assembly, effective June 1, paving the way for the state election to be held within 60 days.
On Thursday (June 4), Negri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun announced that the 36-seat Negri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly would be dissolved on Friday after receiving the consent of the Ruler of Negri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.
