KUALA LUMPUR – The decision by Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) in Johor to contest all 56 seats in the upcoming state election will not affect cooperation at the federal government level, said PH communications director Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
He emphasised that the announcements by Johor BN and PH were made solely at the state level and do not alter the existing collaborative relationship between the parties, Bernama reported.
“I believe we will wait and listen to the views of the top leadership at PH level this afternoon,” he said during a press conference held at the Persada International Convention Centre in conjunction with the PH Convention in Johor Bahru today.
When asked whether BN might seek negotiations with PH, Fahmi did not dismiss the possibility. “Maybe, maybe, yes,” he replied.
Johor Menteri Besar and state BN chairman Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi yesterday declared that BN would contest all state seats, followed by Johor PH chief Aminolhuda Hassan, who made a similar announcement at the convention today.
Fahmi, who also serves as PKR information chief, said PH is prepared for any scenario, including a Special State Assembly sitting reportedly scheduled for June 24.
Commenting on the convention, Fahmi said it had proceeded smoothly, with attendance from members, delegates and leaders estimated to exceed 8,000, surpassing the initial target of 5,000.
This afternoon, Prime Minister and PH chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to deliver the keynote address and officially open the PH 2026 Convention, themed “Tekad MADANI, Harapan Rakyat” (MADANI Resolve, People’s Hope).
Leaders expected to speak include DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, and PH secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. — May 17, 2026