22-7-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, the former Malaysian Prime Minister, has called on the Malay community to actively participate in the upcoming state elections, stating that it is crucial to ensure the country remains in their hands. Speaking at a Perikatan Nasional (PN) mega rally in Kelantan’s capital, which attracted tens of thousands of attendees, Dr. Mahathir urged Malays in six states—Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Penang, Selangor, and Negeri Sembilan—to turn out in large numbers and vote for victory.
Addressing the crowd, Dr. Mahathir emphasized the significance of exercising the right to vote as a means to safeguard the interests of the Malay community. He stressed that Malays should use the law and democratic processes to decide the country’s government and preserve their cultural identity. He asserted that Malays are not a violent people, but they should assert their rights through lawful means.
This rally marked the first time Dr. Mahathir appeared on stage alongside the top leadership of Perikatan Nasional, while sporting a green vest emblematic of the Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS). In the past, Dr. Mahathir has been critical of PAS, accusing the party of exploiting Islam for political gain.
After experiencing electoral defeat for the first time in 53 years during the 15th general election, Dr. Mahathir authored a Malay Proclamation aimed at protecting Malay interests and uniting the community to regain political power. He has also raised concerns about the potential erosion of Malay rights under the current government.
Recently, Dr. Mahathir met with Perikatan Nasional’s chairman, Muhyiddin Yassin, in a notable encounter, following the “Sheraton Move” in 2020, which led to the collapse of the ruling Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition government. Muhyiddin assumed the position of Malaysia’s next prime minister after these events.
The forthcoming state elections in Malaysia are scheduled for August 12, with nomination day set for July 29. The six states—Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Penang, Selangor, and Negeri Sembilan—dissolved their legislative assemblies last month, opting for separate state elections instead of concurrent elections with the 15th general election held on November 19 last year.
Among these states, Kelantan, Terengganu, and Kedah are governed by PAS, a member of the Perikatan Nasional coalition. Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, and Penang, on the other hand, are under the Pakatan Harapan coalition, which currently forms the unity government in collaboration with former rivals, Barisan Nasional (BN).
This upcoming state election is seen as a crucial test for the unity government following the formation of the current government after the hung parliament results in the last general election. Over 9.7 million eligible voters will have the opportunity to cast their ballots during the state elections.
