KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that political cooperation in the country must not be undermined by any form of betrayal, saying unity among parties is essential, particularly amid ongoing economic pressures.
Speaking at the 10th Annual General Meeting of Koperasi Profesional Putrajaya Berhad (KOPROJAYA) here on Saturday, Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, said stable collaboration was crucial for the country’s development, Bernama reported.
“I have stated that in ensuring the success of cooperation in this country, there must be no elements of betrayal. If there is no betrayal, then it is good,” he said.
Also present were Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, National Cooperative Movement of Malaysia (ANGKASA) president Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Fattah Abdullah, and KOPROJAYA chairman Saiful Azhar Shaharun.
Anwar was responding to remarks by Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who had previously said that issues of betrayal should not arise once an administration term has concluded.
Zahid’s comments came after several Pakatan Harapan leaders allegedly described Umno as a “traitor” following the announcement of the Negeri Sembilan state election.
However, Anwar said he believed there were instances that reflected elements of political betrayal in Negeri Sembilan, despite what he described as relative stability.
“In our experience in Negeri Sembilan, there were certainly attempts (betrayal) despite the political stability and the economy, but there were elements aimed at bringing it down.
“So, in my view, there is a bit of betrayal. As for Johor, it is up to them if they want to hold an earlier election,” he said.
He added that without such issues, all parties should instead focus on strengthening mutual understanding within existing political cooperation.
Anwar also reiterated that the government’s priority under the MADANI framework is to drive economic growth and address public concerns, rather than becoming preoccupied with imminent elections.
“I have said that our focus is on generating economic growth and addressing people’s problems, not being busy with election matters in the next two or three months,” he said.
On June 12, the Election Commission set polling day for the Johor election on July 11, while the Negeri Sembilan election will be held on August 1. – June 14, 2026