PAS has urged voters not to support Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the upcoming Johor state election, saying the move is necessary to safeguard Malay-Muslim political strength in the state.
In a statement, party president Abdul Hadi Awang said PAS’ central leadership held a special meeting ahead of the July 11 election and agreed to intensify its campaign efforts.
The party will mobilise its election machinery in the 11 state constituencies it is contesting while reaching out to voters from all walks of life under the slogan ‘Jom Jaga Johor’.
Call to reject PH
Abdul Hadi said voters should not cast their ballots for PH, particularly in constituencies where the coalition is involved in straight fights with Barisan Nasional (BN).
He said the decision formed part of PAS’ efforts to defend Malay-Muslim political influence in Johor.
Preparations for upcoming elections
The party’s leadership also resolved to begin early preparations for the Negeri Sembilan state election, which is scheduled for Aug 1.
Earlier, PAS Youth announced that it would support BN candidates in constituencies where Perikatan Nasional (PN) is not contesting in an effort to prevent PH from gaining ground.
PAS Youth information chief Nadzir Helmi said the priority was to stop PH’s dominance, particularly the influence of DAP as the coalition’s largest party, to safeguard the interests of the people and Johor’s future.
Position on BN-PH contests
Yesterday, PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan said the party would not support PH over BN in the 14 constituencies featuring straight contests between the two coalitions.
He said PAS had yet to decide whether its members should vote for BN in those seats, but stressed that PH would not be the party they would support.
