MALACCA POLLS | Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged Malacca voters to back Pakatan Harapan in the Nov 14 state election, highlighting its multiracial representation and the integrity of its candidates.

He said the coalition was seeking to draw on the strengths of the Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities, particularly amid what he described as racial sentiments posing a challenge in the campaign.

Anwar's remarks follow a call by Harapan secretary-general Saifuddin Nasution Ismail for parties to reject racial and religious incitement throughout the campaign, saying the coalition would instead focus on policies, service records, and public welfare.

Saifuddin made the call after nomination day on Oct 31, when the 16th Malacca state election campaign officially began.

Harapan's electoral challenge comes against the backdrop of its 2021 state election performance, when it won just five of the 28 seats, compared with BN's 21 and Perikatan Nasional's two.

In a post on X today, Anwar, who is also the Harapan chairperson, appealed to voters to place their trust in the coalition, citing its commitment to "hard work, leadership with integrity, and a proven track record in championing the people’s interests and developing the state".

He also expressed hope that voters would make their choices wisely and that Harapan would be given the opportunity to continue serving the state.

“May Allah SWT illuminate your hearts as you make your choices and grant Harapan the strength to serve to the best of its ability,” he said.

The Nov 14 election will see 79 candidates vying for 28 state legislative assembly seats, with Harapan fielding 24 candidates.

- Bernama