KUALA LUMPUR – Pakatan Harapan (PH) has signalled its readiness to field candidates in every State Legislative Assembly seat in Johor and Negeri Sembilan should Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN) choose to contest all constituencies in the forthcoming state elections.
PH chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he was unsurprised by BN’s move and emphasised that the coalition would respond decisively to any action that threatens the unity of the government, Bernama reported.
“Today PH has decided to respond firmly. If this is their (UMNO) choice, PH will contest in all constituencies in Johor, in Negeri Sembilan, all constituencies. And we are monitoring everything,” he said.
Speaking at the conclusion of the PH 2026 Convention at Persada Johor International Convention Centre today, Anwar, who is also Prime Minister, suggested that a nationwide 16th general election (GE16) could be called if tensions within the government escalate to the point of jeopardising political stability.
“If this is how we are compartmentalising and rupturing relations within the government, is it possible that we will choose to hold a nationwide general election? But let us decide together,” he added.
While relations among the Unity Government’s top leadership remain harmonious, Anwar said he would soon convene PH leaders to assess the coalition’s readiness to face any eventuality. He reiterated, however, that dialogue remains open if all parties prioritise national stability over narrow political gains.
Yesterday, Johor Menteri Besar and state BN chairman Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced BN’s decision to contest all state assembly seats in the upcoming election, expected to be held soon. – May 17, 2026