Political parties should prioritise national stability and avoid allowing political differences to escalate into conflict that could affect Malaysia’s economy, says UMNO vice-president Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani.
He said political parties were currently looking for allies ahead of the Melaka state election, although the Election Commission (EC) has yet to announce the polling date.
Johari said that while Malaysia embraces an open democratic system, all political parties must continue to consider the importance of maintaining national stability.
“This is politics, not about fighting. That is my concept. If you want to be friends with one party, then another party the next day and return to the first party again later, that is politics.
“What is important is that we do not fight, because the most important thing is that the country must remain stable,” he said after officiating the closing ceremony and prize presentation of the Raintree Invitational Tennis Championship at Raintree Club Kuala Lumpur.
Johari, who is also Investment, Trade and Industry Minister, said political maturity was crucial to ensuring Malaysia’s stability remained intact.
He said political stability would allow the economy to continue growing while helping Malaysia attract and retain investors.
“When the country is stable, the economy can move forward, investors can come, those who are already here will not want to leave, and those who have not yet come will come because they see Malaysia as a very politically mature country,” he said.
Johari said Malaysia had experienced changes in prime minister without necessarily compromising its stability.
“Even though we changed prime ministers three times, it was okay. We want that stability.
“You can do whatever you want, if you want to accuse someone of doing something wrong, meet them in court. But we have to maintain this democracy,” he said.
Meanwhile, Johari expressed hope that sporting events such as the tournament organised by Raintree Club would continue to be held annually, with greater participation from younger generations.
He said such events could encourage more young people to become involved in clubs, make use of their facilities and eventually take on leadership roles.
“I hope this does not stop here. Every year, tournaments like this should be organised, especially if they can bring together younger generations to come to the club and enjoy the facilities here.
“And hopefully, one day, they will take over the leadership of this club,” he said.
