PKR today praised DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng for making the "difficult decision" to cancel DAP's intention to hold snap polls in Penang.

Lim, who is Penang chief minister, said this is because DAP has taken into account PKR's misgivings and will not act unilaterally, in the interest of Pakatan Harapan unity.

"I understand that it was a difficult decision but by prioritising the spirit of coalition Lim has displayed the leadership we much need to stand as a united opposition coalition to face the 14th general election.

"I am confident this decision will not only be received well by the people of Penang but all Malaysians because it marks a new beginning towards uniting the rakyat who are hungry for change," PKR deputy president Azmin Ali said in a statement.

Penang executive councillor cum PKR national deputy youth chief Dr Afif Bahardin (photo) described DAP as a "true friend" who is willing to listen to its partners.

"They listen with an open heart to the concerns of their coalition partners, indeed the decision by DAP and Lim today is the way forward towards a stronger opposition," Afif told Malaysiakini.

"This is a catalyst for us to further national reforms and to urge for Prime Minister Najib Razak to step down," added the Seberang Jaya assemblyman.

Untimely distraction

His colleague, Penang PKR strategic bureau chief Cheah Kah Peng said by not pressing ahead with the proposal to dissolve the state assembly, Malaysians are spared from an "untimely distraction".

"Without which we would now have the full opportunity to concentrate on the more pressing national issues," added the Kebun Bunga assemblyperson.

The issues include the fight against rampant corruption and money laundering, public security, rising crime rate, unemployment rate and stagnated economic growth of the country, he said.

"Pakatan Harapan would now have a better time frame to restructure and devise for opposition cooperation during this complicated time and plan for the future," Cheah said.

"This is finally a prudent decision and can only be achieved following discussions amongst component parties of Pakatan Harapan together with the strong imput of the rational people of Penang," he added.

Today, Lim (photo) said DAP had to abort the ides of snap polls as PKR did not agree to the proposal.

DAP also felt as "unfeasible", PKR's request to give it two seats if the coalition agrees to go to polls.

Earlier, Lim insisted on a snap polls to return the mandate to the people after he was charged with two corruption charges.

Meanwhile, Parti Amanah Negara said DAP's announcement today proved that the party is committed to its promise not to call for polls unilaterally.

Expressing his appreciation, Amanah Penang chief Mujahid Yusof Rawa said is aware of some negative comments regarding the negotiation process between Pakatan allies.

He was referring to several comments made by PAS leaders which he described as " attacks and threats" to stop Amanah from contesting in the snap polls.

"We hope there will be no more cynical criticisms against Amanah as there is now time to prepare for the coming national polls," said the Parit Buntar MP.

"These criticisms ought to be resolved so that Pakatan can become strong, including its relationship with PAS," added the Amanah vice-president.