There is no rift between Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) at the federal level despite the two coalitions contesting against each other in the Johor state election, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.
The BN chairman said relations between the coalition partners remain “very, very good”, stressing that both sides continue to work closely within the Unity Government while maintaining a professional approach during the state election campaign.
Ahmad Zahid said the leadership of both coalitions clearly distinguishes between national governance and state-level political contests, with Cabinet members continuing to prioritise the national agenda despite electoral competition.
He added that BN and PH are committed to preserving harmony within the Unity Government by conducting mature election campaigns based on healthy competition rather than personal attacks or excessive provocation.
According to Ahmad Zahid, both coalitions have agreed to avoid crossing political boundaries during campaigning, urging leaders and supporters to defuse tensions should disagreements arise.
He also said electoral success is no longer determined by attacking political opponents, but by presenting credible candidates and allowing voters to assess their qualifications and track records.
As an example, he pointed to BN candidates with professional backgrounds, including medical practitioners and former ministers, saying campaigns should focus on candidates’ merits rather than discrediting rivals.
A total of 172 candidates are contesting the Johor state election, with polling scheduled for 11 July and early voting on July 7.
