KUALA LUMPUR: Any political negotiations must weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks before an agreement is reached, says Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic).
He said discussions must be conducted honestly and sincerely, with all parties honouring their commitments.
He said this when asked whether Barisan had finalised its political partner for the Melaka election.
According to Ahmad Zahid, Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, who is also the Melaka Barisan and Umno liaison committee chairman, has been given the mandate to lead negotiations at the state level.
Ahmad Zahid said the outcome would then be brought to the national level for further consideration and refinement.
“There is no single formula that is suitable for all states.
“Melaka needs a formula that is relevant to its own geopolitical situation, just as Johor and Negri Sembilan have their own respective formulas,” he said after closing a charity ride at the Kuala Lumpur police headquarters yesterday.
He stressed that honesty, sincerity and keeping promises are essential to any political agreement or coalition.
On relations between Barisan and Pakatan Harapan at the national level, he said continued cooperation between the two coalitions is important to ensure political stability and effective governance.
“This includes Cabinet meetings, coordination between ministries and a whole-of-government approach, all for the benefit of the country and to maintain political stability,” he said.
On a separate matter, Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, said Malaysians travelling abroad, particularly motorcyclists, must respect and comply with the laws and regulations of the countries they visit.
He said the issue is important following a recent incident involving 17 Malaysian motorcyclists who were issued compounds in Hat Yai, Thailand, for violating local regulations.
He urged Malaysians to respect foreign laws and avoid actions that could lead to violations while travelling abroad.
“This is important as we must uphold the spirit of Asean, which is based on mutual understanding, tolerance and respect among member countries,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid said such cross-border issues are among the matters discussed during annual consultation meetings between Malaysia and other Asean countries.
He said close ties between neighbouring countries should be reflected in mutual tolerance and a willingness to resolve problems collectively.
“We must demonstrate a spirit of positive neighbourliness and resolve issues through consultation and cooperation,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid hopes that future motorcycling events could be expanded in conjunction with the police force’s 220th anniversary.
He said one proposal was to involve 220 motorcyclists as a symbolic representation of the milestone.
Ahmad Zahid added that motorcycling associations, particularly the Super Bikers Association of Malaysia, could be involved in the initiative.
“I also aim to take part in the event,” he said.
