KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 23 — Should a unity government be formed, PKR vice-president Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad reportedly said it should be represented by not only parties across the political spectrum, but all races, faiths, states, and territories within the nation.
He at the same time agreed that Malaysia needed a unity government, and believes it is the most sustainable solution for Malaysia to meet the challenges ahead, which included a possible global recession, climate change, and geopolitical uncertainties.
“Stability is also required if Malaysia is to remain economically competitive with its neighbours and as an investment destination. Much work needs to be done to provide inclusive education, housing, healthcare, and jobs to our people — especially the young.
“All this requires a government that is stable, functional, and legitimate. Again, the best way to bring one about is via a unity government,” he said in a report by Malaysiakini.
Noting that Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong also wanted an all-inclusive and all-encompassing government, Nik Nazmi said PH, which emerged with the most number of seats in the Dewan Rakyat, is prepared to lead and be part of such an administration.
“It is true that the last election campaign was intense and even bitter. We have our principles and our opponents have theirs,” he reportedly said.
“But, when the nation is left in a state of uncertainty and with external challenges at bay, we must put aside these differences for the greater good and national interest.
“The key is to find common ground and ways to work together to see Malaysia through the economic and other threats that we may face in the months and years ahead.
“GE15 (15th general election) has also unfortunately seen heightened extremist sentiments being expressed on social media. As such, a unity government can help to cool tensions and calm anxieties,” he added.
In the report, Nik Nazmi said Anwar has expressed willingness to work with all quarters, even PH’s closest rivals, to realise a unity government including Perikatan Nasional (PN), Barisan Nasional (BN), Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), Warisan, and other parties or independent MPs.
The Setiawangsa MP-elect added it was both “unfortunate and shortsighted” for PN chairperson Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to reject forming a unity government.
“PN will have to explain why. But I suspect it is because it is unable to create or lead such a unity government.
“Because of PN’s unwillingness, PH is working to form one with the other coalitions. It is not easy given the long rivalry between our respective component parties.
“But PH believes it must ensure stability in Malaysia, as well as its multiracial character. Good governance and the independence of our public institutions is non-negotiable,” he reportedly said.
Nik Nazmi added as entities with strong traditions of multiracialism, a unity government between PH, BN, GPS, GRS, Warisan, and others is best placed to serve and develop Malaysians who voted for both PH and PN.
“Bumiputera and non-Bumiputera, Muslim and non-Muslim, urban and rural — no one should be left out or feeling fearful in Malaysia. It is hence only common sense for Malaysia’s political leaders to take heed of the Agong’s call for a unity government,” he said.
