FORMER Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik has accepted an invitation to debate with Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi ahead of the upcoming Johor State Election (PRN).
Maszlee, who was announced as the Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Puteri Wangsa seat in the PRN, said the decision was made based on respect for democracy and the belief that the debate can be used to strengthen political maturity among the people.
He said the invitation had attracted a lot of attention, with various parties contacting him to seek confirmation regarding his participation in the debate.
"With all humility and respect, and based on the background and principles of democracy, I accept this invitation or challenge.
"God willing, together we will make this debate or dialogue space a vehicle to educate the people and elevate a mature political culture," he said in a Facebook post.
The proposal to organise the 'Johor PRN Prime Debate', which is seen as one of the focal points ahead of the Johor PRN, was initiated by influencer Muhamad Harris Nasril and was shared on the Redaksi.com Facebook page, after PH Chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced all 56 PH candidates in Muar yesterday.
The Election Commission (EC) has set this Saturday as nomination day, while July 7 is for early voting and July 11 as polling day. – June 23, 2026
