KUALA LUMPUR, July 15 — Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has called for greater political unity among Malays following the conclusion of the Johor state election, saying the outcome demonstrated the importance of a united Malay political front.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Dr Mahathir said the recently concluded Johor polls showed that when Malays unite, they are able to regain political strength.
He acknowledged that while the form and structure of political cooperation among Malay-based parties may still be unclear, it should be viewed as a positive step towards strengthening Malay political influence.
According to Dr Mahathir, however, political unity should not be used to defend wrongdoing or pursue negative agendas. Instead, he said it must serve the purpose of uplifting the dignity of the Malay community, safeguarding Islam and preserving the nation’s sovereignty.
He stressed that such unity should not be aimed at suppressing or denying the rights and interests of other communities.
“Political strength gives Malays the confidence to defend the interests of their community without questioning the rights of other races,” he said.
Dr Mahathir added that this approach had been practised since Malaysia achieved independence and had contributed to the prosperity of both Malays and other communities.
He reiterated that strengthening Malay political unity remains essential to ensuring the country’s future and preserving national sovereignty.
The statement comes in the wake of the Johor state election, where discussions on Malay political cooperation have gained renewed attention following the electoral outcome.
— MINUTESMY
