Johor poll not my priority as economic recovery remains Federal Government’s focus - Anwar

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that an early state election in Johor was not the Federal Government’s preferred course of action, arguing that national economic recovery and unresolved global uncertainties should take precedence over electoral contests.

Speaking at the launch of Pakatan Harapan’s election machinery for the Johor state election in Batu Pahat on Saturday night, Anwar said his administration would rather concentrate on addressing economic concerns affecting ordinary Malaysians than divert attention towards campaigning.

However, he acknowledged that the dissolution of the Johor State Legislative Assembly by the state government had left political parties with little choice but to prepare for the coming election.

“We (the Federal Government) are not yet ready to hold elections. We should first assess the situation before going to the polls. Nevertheless, our component partners are prepared to face the challenge of the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections.

“Why is that? Because we want to safeguard the country and focus on the national economy. Global issues have yet to subside, including the fact that the Strait of Hormuz has not been fully reopened, as well as housing problems and other concerns.

“If they want to hold an election in Johor, that is their choice. I have no choice. They want an election, and I am OK with that,” he said.

Anwar’s remarks underscore a broader attempt by the Unity Government to frame the election as a state-driven political exercise rather than a federal initiative, while reinforcing the administration’s message that economic stability remains its principal priority.

The Prime Minister noted that Johor differs significantly from Negeri Sembilan in political composition, pointing out that Barisan Nasional currently dominates the majority of seats in the southern state, while Negeri Sembilan remains far more competitive, with only a narrow seat difference and a legislative term that has yet to reach its third anniversary.

“Therefore, if they (Barisan Nasional) want an election, we will proceed. In this state election, we will return the mandate to the people and allow the people to decide.

“I have come to invite our friends in Johor to work together, not to create political enemies. We must have stable politics. Do not take stability lightly; look at other countries where people have had to queue to buy fuel.

“We must prioritise the wishes of the people. We also need a government moving in one direction because the benefits are far greater,” he said.

Anwar also said previous electoral experiences in Johor had provided valuable lessons for Pakatan Harapan, particularly in understanding shifting voter sentiment and the evolving political landscape.

With campaigning set to intensify, the Prime Minister’s message focused heavily on stability, economic management and cooperation, signalling that Pakatan Harapan intends to position itself as a coalition focused on governance rather than political confrontation as voters prepare to return to the ballot box. - June 7, 2026