THE federal government has sought to draw a clear distinction between impending state elections in Johor and Negeri Sembilan and the prospect of a nationwide poll, dismissing mounting speculation that recent political developments could trigger an early dissolution of Parliament.
Government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said there had been no discussions whatsoever regarding a snap general election, emphasising that the Unity Government remained stable and fully functional despite Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) opting to contest separately in the forthcoming state elections.
“At this time, there are no discussions regarding any effort to hold an early general election,” Fahmi told reporters after the Cabinet meeting on Friday.
The assurance follows the dissolution of the Johor State Legislative Assembly on 1 June and the formal dissolution of the Negeri Sembilan assembly on Friday, developments that have intensified political speculation over possible ramifications for federal politics.
Fahmi insisted that cooperation among parties forming the Unity Government at the federal level remained unaffected.
“There is no impact on the Unity government at the federal level,” he said.
He added that Cabinet proceedings continued as normal.
“Cabinet this morning proceeded smoothly as usual in an atmosphere of goodwill and mutual respect.
“The close relationship among federal government leaders is also unaffected.”
The Communications Minister stressed that both state dissolutions were carried out through established constitutional channels after receiving royal consent from the respective rulers.
“The respective state governments’ applications were approved by the sovereign rulers, namely the Regent of Johor and the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan.
“Therefore, the process will continue through the appropriate channels.”
Fahmi was also compelled to address social media speculation surrounding a formal Cabinet photograph taken earlier on Friday, after some observers suggested it could signal preparations for a parliamentary dissolution.
He categorically rejected the claim, explaining that the photograph was merely an administrative matter arising from Cabinet changes implemented late last year.
“That’s incorrect. So, the prime minister informed today that it was his wish for a photo session as there were new ministers being appointed into the Cabinet,” he said.
“The appointments and reshuffling were made last December and there wasn’t an opportunity to have a photo session.
“So, the photo session has nothing to do with Parliament being dissolved. The timing was simply convenient as ministers were already gathered in Putrajaya for the ceremonial parade event and were dressed in official attire.
“There is no issue. It is a normal matter and has nothing to do with the dissolution of Parliament.”
He noted that the Prime Minister’s Department considered Friday an appropriate occasion to conduct the official photograph because Cabinet members were already present in Putrajaya for the royal ceremonial parade and were wearing full ceremonial dress.
“Before this, an official photograph had also been taken with the previous Cabinet configuration, so this is normal practice and has no connection whatsoever with the dissolution of Parliament,” he said.
Separately, Fahmi said criticism from certain quarters regarding the timing of the state elections, amid economic pressures linked to ongoing regional conflicts, would not alter the constitutional process already set in motion.
Meanwhile, on reports alleging a meeting between PAS and UMNO leaders, he said the matter was not discussed during Friday’s Cabinet meeting.
He also confirmed that a decision on the scheduling of Parti Keadilan Rakyat’s annual congress would be considered at the party’s Central Leadership Council meeting in Johor on Saturday.
“At this time, a decision has not yet been made and it will be discussed tomorrow.
“So, let’s wait for tomorrow,” he said. - June 5, 2026
