JOHOR BARU: Political parties, especially those from the unity government, should avoid making personal attacks during the Johor election campaign as they are still working together to govern the country at the federal level, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
The Barisan Nasional deputy chairman said the parties are free to debate policies and political differences, but campaigning should not come at the expense of harmony and national stability.
“We are still managing the country together at the federal level. For me, governing the country is important. Don’t let the election damage the country.
“Criticism is normal during an election. We can ‘usik mengusik’ (tease each other); there is no issue with that.
“We can debate on policies and parties, but nothing should become personal,” he said after meeting Tiram voters at a restaurant here yesterday.
Mohamad, who is Foreign Minister, said preserving political stability is crucial to ensure continued investor confidence and economic growth.
“The crucial thing is that we do not undermine the country’s stability, which is the foundation for the influx of foreign investment into Malaysia.
“Last year, Malaysia received 42 million tourists, the highest in Asean, surpassing Thailand. People see Malaysia as a stable and peaceful country.
“So we should not allow small issues to cause us to lose out,” he added.
On another matter, Mohamad denied claims linking the Johor election to the possible release of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
“I have said many times that Datuk Seri Najib’s case or his release has nothing to do with this election.
“We are a country governed by the rule of law. This is a state election; what can a Mentri Besar do to secure Datuk Seri Najib’s release? Nothing, because that power lies strictly at the federal level,” he said.
He added that the power to grant a royal pardon rested solely with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
“No one else has that power except the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. We should not assume that power or undermine it,” he said.
