Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged coalition partners to exercise restraint and show mutual respect in public discourse after a DAP leader described the party as hypocritical.
His remarks came after DAP Youth chief Woo Kah Leong criticised Johor Umno’s intention to contest the upcoming Johor election independently rather than cooperate with DAP, calling the party hypocritical and arrogant.
Woo argued that Johor Umno’s position was inconsistent with the current political landscape, as the party remains part of the unity government.
Zahid calls for respectful political discourse
Speaking after attending the 4th Southeast Asian Scholars Conference 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Zahid said political allies should avoid making careless statements that could undermine cooperation.
‘They must learn to respect their friends. Do not make careless remarks.
‘I do not think even the secretary-general of his party behaves in such a manner.
‘He must respect the principles of political partnership,’ he said.
Mutual respect essential for coalition partners
Woo had also alleged that Umno was being hypocritical by cooperating with Pakatan Harapan at the federal level while taking a different approach in certain elections.
In response, Zahid stressed that maintaining good relations among coalition members requires consideration and discipline in public communication.
‘Political partners should look after each other’s feelings and, most importantly, guard their words so that they do not simply say whatever is in their hearts,’ he said.
‘Even if there is a tiger in your heart, let only a goat come out. That is what they should learn.’
Johor election schedule announced
The Election Commission has fixed July 11 as polling day for the Johor election.
Election Commission chairman Ramlan Harun said nomination day will be held on June 27, while early voting is scheduled for July 7.
The Johor Legislative Assembly was dissolved on June 1 after caretaker Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced that he had obtained the consent of the Johor Regent, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim.
