BUKIT KATIL – Cooperation between Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) could rebuild political strength, strengthen unity among Muslims and prevent divisions that could benefit their political opponents.
Pas president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang said the partnership was important in consolidating political support and creating a united front against Pakatan Harapan (PH), which he claimed was dominated by DAP.
"Unity is very important. Through unity, we can build strength and the weak can become strong. We must unite and not allow Muslims to become divided to the extent that others benefit from it.
"That is why we are fostering unity between BN and PN. We are joining forces to defeat PH," he said.
He was speaking at the BN-PN Melaka state election Grand Finale rally at Dewan Muallim Abdul Wahid, Bukit Katil on Thursday.
Hadi also urged Pas supporters to vote for BN candidates in constituencies where PN was not contesting, saying the same commitment should be demonstrated by BN supporters in seats contested by PN.
"I ask Pas supporters to vote for BN in constituencies where PN is not contesting and to vote for MCA and Gerakan. Malays and Chinese should do the same, including in areas where we are contesting.
"The objective is to save the country through unity," he added.
He said such cooperation should go beyond political interests, stressing that racial harmony and peaceful coexistence among different communities must be preserved.
Hadi reminded Malaysians that people of different races and religions had lived together peacefully for decades since independence.
"We must unite in the name of humanity. Malays and non-Muslims live together in society.
"We want to live in peace. Abandon colonial ideas and save this country. Fulfil your respective responsibilities by coming out to vote this Saturday," he said.
Commenting further on the political partnership, Hadi described the cooperation in Melaka as more established than similar efforts in Negeri Sembilan and Johor to strengthen unity among the Muslim community.
He said the collaboration had continued to improve and expressed confidence that it could be further consolidated ahead of the next general election (GE).
"Malay Muslims lead fairly for everyone because Malays make up the majority of the population, but they have an obligation to be fair to everyone.
"This is what we want to fulfil. The consolidation in Melaka will continue to improve until the next GE," he said.
The Election Commission has set Nov 14 as polling day for the 16th Melaka state election, following the dissolution of the 28-seat State Legislative Assembly on Sept 23.
Nomination day was held on Oct 31, while early voting took place on Nov 10. The 14-day campaigning period will end at 11.59pm on Nov 13.
A total of 79 candidates are contesting all 28 state constituencies, with a coalition requiring at least 15 seats to secure a simple majority and form the state government.