PETALING JAYA: Respect for the people’s mandate is central to Malaysia’s democracy and it would be arrogant to exclude any party from the country’s administration, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (pic).
The Prime Minister said every party that takes part in the electoral process deserves recognition.
He said the government must reflect the reality of Malaysia’s diverse society by ensuring the participation of various communities and political parties in governance, thereby promoting inclusivity and representing the will of the people.
“We in the government and public institutions must represent Malaysians of all races and religions. While Malays form the majority and the nation’s core policies remain clear and undisputed, we must also uphold democratic principles by respecting the choices made by the people.
“It would be arrogant for anyone to decide that a particular race or political party should be denied the right to participate and contribute to the government’s agenda.
“I am emphasising this because political campaigns can sometimes create tension and lead to excessive rhetoric,” he said at the Communications Ministry’s monthly assembly.
The Prime Minister said Malaysia was built on core principles enshrined in the Federal Constitution, which remain the nation’s guiding framework regardless of changes in political leadership.
“Governments may come and go, but the constitutional framework remains our guide.
“When it comes to who should stand alongside the Prime Minister in government and the Cabinet, we must respect every individual regardless of race or ethnicity,” he said.
Anwar, however, did not specify any political party or community in his speech.
On Sunday, Johor Barisan chairman and caretaker Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the coalition will not work with DAP if it is given the mandate to form the state government after the state election.
Onn Hafiz had said the state’s political landscape differs from the situation at the federal level, pointing out that the coalition had never governed alongside DAP in Johor.
Anwar said Malaysians should not merely tolerate differences in race, language or culture, but seek to truly know, understand and value one another.
“What distinguishes people is not race, wealth, rank or skin colour, but their character and virtue.
“In the Madani framework, we emphasise values. We do not want our children to grow up hating others because of their race. Such thinking reflects the characteristics of ignorance,” he said.
The Prime Minister said even when parties disagree, they should argue with wisdom and courtesy.
