KUALA LUMPUR, July 2 — Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today welcomed any additional support for Barisan Nasional (BN) after PAS urged voters to reject Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the Johor state election, but said the only measure that mattered would be the outcome at the ballot box on July 11.
Speaking to reporters after attending the 2025 Excellent Service Award Ceremony and Kejora Charity Donation at Lotus Desaru in Kota Tinggi, Zahid said BN respected the positions taken by other political coalitions, including PAS’ recent call for voters to withhold support from PH.
“That is their approach. We are campaigning professionally and concentrating on our candidates. Of course, if there is additional support, that is even better,” he said, as reported by Utusan Malaysia.
“We want to see the outcome on July 11 when the ballot boxes are opened. That will be the real proof of whether what they are saying is true or otherwise.”
His remarks came after PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang urged voters not to back PH in the Johor state election, including in constituencies where the contest is a straight fight between BN and PH.
He said the directive was among five resolutions adopted during a special meeting of the party’s Central Working Committee on Monday.
Asked about claims that the Johor election campaign had been subdued, Zahid dismissed the suggestion, saying BN’s campaign machinery remained active on the ground.
“The perception that the campaign is lacklustre may come from others, but BN believes the campaign is being carried out vigorously,” he said.
He added that every political coalition had the right to decide whether to support BN or otherwise.
“Naturally, we are grateful if that support is translated into votes on July 11 and helps secure victory for BN’s candidates in the Johor state election,” he said.
Johor voters will cast their ballots on July 11, with early voting set for July 7.