KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 9 — Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani has mocked Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) ambition to take over Selangor, saying the coalition should just be “tourists” in the state.
English daily New Straits Times reported Johari as saying that it would be beneficial for leaders of PN to “explore” Selangor and gain insights into effective state administration.
“If they want to come to Selangor, we welcome them as tourists,” he reportedly said, referring to PN.
“It’s good for them to learn how Selangor was able to manage the economy despite the state not being aligned with the federal government for three terms, in Penang, too. There’s nothing wrong with learning from people who understand about administering a state.”
Johari, who is also the Titiwangsa MP, underscored the pivotal role leadership competence plays in a state’s performance.
Drawing a comparison, he noted that while Kelantan contributes only 1.9 per cent to the nation’s GDP, Selangor’s contribution stands at a significant 25.5 per cent.
He questioned the viability of PN’s intention to bring about change in Selangor, considering these figures.
Johari also encouraged voters in Kelantan to offer an opportunity to the unity government to manage the state.
“When choosing a political party [to vote], look at their objectives. If it is to overthrow the government, then wait until 2027,” he was quoted as saying, referring to the end of the current federal government’s term.
Selangor voters will go to the ballots for state seats this Saturday.
