Fahmi says the Johor state election is about the state’s future, not a personal referendum, urging voters to choose wisely.
BATU PAHAT: The 16th Johor State Election is not a referendum on any individual but a crucial opportunity for voters to choose a leadership capable of shaping a better future for the state, says Pakatan Harapan (PH) Communications Director Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
Describing attempts to link a potential Barisan Nasional (BN) victory to support for a former prime minister as surprising, Fahmi said such narratives should serve as a wake-up call for voters.
“We do not cast our votes over personal matters. This election is about the people of Johor and the state’s future. I am concerned by such statements, and I believe many voters understand what is truly at stake,” said the Communications Minister.
He was speaking to reporters after a meet-and-greet session with residents of Kampung Istana today, which was also attended by Communications Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah and PH candidate for the Penggaram state seat, Felicia Poh Rui Ling.
Fahmi was responding to remarks by Datuk Nazifuddin Mohd Najib, who claimed that a BN victory in the Johor election would reflect public support for his father, Datuk Seri Najib Razak, to be granted a pardon.
On claims that support from non-Malay voters is no longer a “fixed deposit” for DAP, Fahmi said no political party should ever regard public support as permanent or guaranteed.
“We cannot take voters for granted. Public support must be earned, maintained and continuously strengthened. I believe many Malaysians aspire to see something better.
“When people hear statements that raise concern or alarm, it may prompt them to realise that their vote is not merely a personal choice, it is invaluable in determining the future of not only the state but also the country,” he said.
Meanwhile, Fahmi said the support shown by several individuals associated with opposition parties for PH candidates reflected the coalition’s growing appeal ahead of the Johor election.
He cited the support expressed by former Rengit assemblyman Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi, noting that while many had assumed he remained firmly aligned with UMNO and BN, recent developments suggested otherwise.
“Johor UMNO may once have regarded the state as its ‘fixed deposit’, but Datuk Puad Zarkashi’s statement indicates that such support can no longer be taken for granted,” he said.
Fahmi also pointed to the Rengit state seat and the support shown by Bersatu members for the PH candidate in Sri Medan, Hishamuddin @ Misrin Ishak, as further signs that PH is attracting broader backing.
“When Datuk Puad Zarkashi publicly supported the PH candidate in Rengit, following earlier support from Bersatu members for our candidate in Sri Medan, it is possible that more similar endorsements will emerge in the days ahead.
“This demonstrates PH’s growing appeal and reflects confidence in the Prime Minister’s leadership, which is helping to strengthen the country’s economic recovery, including in Johor,” he said.
The Johor state election will see 172 candidates contesting 56 seats. Polling will be held on July 11, while early voting is scheduled for July 7.
