PAKATAN Harapan’s (PH) 2026 Convention is being positioned as a critical political and strategic platform for the ruling coalition to consolidate support, formulate new electoral approaches and prepare for the next phase of political contests in Malaysia.
Convention director Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the gathering offers component parties within Pakatan Harapan the opportunity to reassess political strategies and strengthen cooperation as the coalition prepares for upcoming state elections and the 16th General Election.
The Communications Minister described the convention as an important moment for leaders and grassroots delegates to unite around new policy ideas and political approaches aimed at securing Malaysia’s future.
“This convention is the best opportunity for us to gather our strength, ideas, and present proposals, formulas and approaches that we need to pursue to ensure a better future for Malaysia,” he said during his welcoming address at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre today.
The convention, held under the theme “Tekad MADANI, Harapan Rakyat”, marks the coalition’s first major national gathering in four years and has drawn approximately 5,000 delegates and party leaders from across the country.
Fahmi said the event also serves as a platform to evaluate the achievements of the MADANI Government, which he argued had delivered measurable results despite continued political pressure from opposition parties.
According to him, the convention’s discussions are heavily focused on preparations for the Johor and Melaka state elections, both of which are increasingly expected to take place in the near future amid rising political speculation.
“Together, we will listen to the message, substance and spirit that the PH chairman (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) wishes to deliver and entrust to us.
“Not only for the general election, but also for state elections that may take place soon, whether we intend to contest many seats, all or only some,” Bernama quoted him saying on Sunday.
His remarks come as political tensions continue to intensify following Barisan Nasional’s announcement that it intends to contest all 56 Johor state seats independently, raising fresh questions about future electoral cooperation between BN and Pakatan Harapan at state level.
Fahmi also urged delegates to return to their respective constituencies with renewed political commitment and stronger resolve to mobilise grassroots support for the coalition.
He called on party members to continue strengthening efforts towards building what he described as a fairer and more inclusive Malaysia under the MADANI administration.
Prime Minister and Pakatan Harapan chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to deliver the convention’s keynote address and officially officiate the gathering later this afternoon.
Other senior coalition leaders scheduled to address delegates include DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and Pakatan Harapan secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
The convention is widely viewed as one of Pakatan Harapan’s most important political mobilisation exercises since forming the federal government, with coalition leaders expected to use the platform to reinforce unity and prepare supporters for a potentially intense electoral cycle ahead. - May 17, 2026
