MELAKA, Oct 25 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the people of Melaka to reject politics of hatred based on race and religion, and instead strengthen unity as the foundation for national stability and progress.
Anwar, also Pakatan Harapan (HARAPAN) chairman, said the history of the Melaka Malay Sultanate and the nation's independence struggle proves that momentous success comes through cooperation among various quarters, and not the struggle of a single group.
“I emphasise this repeatedly because some quarters attempt to distort history by claiming that this country can only be saved through the victory of a single race.
“If our ancestors succeeded in building the Melaka Malay Sultanate into a great empire, we can do the same through peace, unity among all quarters, and sound development strategies,” he said.
Anwar said this when addressing the candidate announcement and launch of the Melaka PH election machinery for the Melaka state election at the Hang Jebat Stadium grounds here last night.
Also present were DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, PKR vice-president and PH election director Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, and Melaka PH chairman Datuk Seri Adly Zahari.
Anwar said elections should serve as a platform to explain government achievements, policies, and future plans, rather than an arena to insult opponents or incite political hostility.
The government, he said, must be judged on its efforts to address bread-and-butter issues, including the cost of living, job opportunities, education, healthcare, and basic amenities.
Anwar stressed that strengthening unity does not mean sidelining the interests of the Malays and Bumiputeras, but that national development must be carried out through the cooperation of all races.
Melaka, he added, must continue to be developed through the active participation of the Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities to ensure the state prospers and secures a brighter future for the younger generation.
The Prime Minister cautioned that racial division could undermine the country's drive to master emerging technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and the digital economy, while stalling job creation and income growth.
Anwar said the government remains committed to rectifying administrative shortcomings and discharging the public trust responsibly, adding that peace and stability must be safeguarded for the nation's well-being.
Touching on the Melaka state election, he urged voters to evaluate candidates based on their dedication and commitment to state development, while reminding the unveiled PH candidates to uphold the people’s trust and serve them diligently.
At the event, Anwar announced 21 candidates who will represent HARAPAN in the Melaka state election scheduled for November 14.
