Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on all political parties to ensure that elections are kept strictly as a contest between parties and are not linked to the royal institution.
He said this when responding to remarks allegedly made by Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, which were said to have included references to Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail (TMJ) during a recent programme.
Anwar stressed that he maintains a good relationship and understanding with TMJ and urged all sides to avoid escalating tensions over the matter.
“We should not heat up the situation. He (Mohamad Sabu) expressed his views. I also have very good discussions with TMJ, very good understanding,” he said.
“So, let us proceed. This is an election, let it be between parties. Do not involve the royal institution,” he added.
The Prime Minister made the remarks after attending a friendly engagement session with the Chief Secretary to the Government and civil servants from the southern zone at the CREATE Centre for Engineering and Technology Excellence on Wednesday.
Mohamad Sabu had earlier been reported to have made remarks during the announcement of Pakatan Harapan candidates for the Johor state election in Bukit Gambir, suggesting that the election should be a fair contest between political parties without the presence of external influence.
He reportedly argued that such interference should not distort democratic practices or serve political interests.
The issue has since drawn public attention amid ongoing political developments in Johor, with leaders calling for calm and respect for institutional boundaries.
Anwar reiterated that Malaysia’s democratic system should continue to allow political parties to compete fairly in elections while maintaining respect for constitutional institutions.
