Johor: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim claimed that certain political parties were joining forces to bring him down because his administration has taken a firm stance against corruption and abuse of power. Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman, said the MADANI Government's uncompromising approach towards those who steal public funds or abuse their positions for personal gain had made certain quarters uneasy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that the political pressure did not intimidate him, as his administration's guiding principle was clear - to ensure that leaders did not abuse their power to acquire land, secure projects, obtain shares, or accumulate personal wealth. He highlighted that despite his numerous visits to Johor, he had not taken any land, projects, or shares in the state.

Anwar urged Johor voters to give PH the opportunity to govern the state to bring about more comprehensive change, particularly in improving public welfare and ensuring clean governance. He stated that Johor should have a state government aligned with the federal government for more effective implementation of development initiatives and assistance programs.

The Prime Minister also pointed out that although Johor had received billions of ringgit worth of development projects, fundamental issues such as housing, roads, mosques, surau, places of worship, and assistance for those in need still required attention. He stressed the need for equitable wealth distribution to prevent only a small group from becoming rich while the majority remain poor.

Anwar defended PH's cooperation with DAP, stating that throughout his tenure as Prime Minister, DAP representatives in the Cabinet had not opposed programs benefiting the Malays or Islam. He encouraged voters in Senggarang, Rengit, and Penggaram to support PH candidates in the Johor state election.

The Johor state election has drawn 172 candidates contesting 56 state seats, with polling scheduled for July 11 and early voting set for July 7.