PM Anwar Chooses Political Stability, Advocates Continued Federal Cooperation With UMNO-BN

MELAKA, Aug 16 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining the partnership between the Unity Government and UMNO-Barisan Nasional (BN) at the Federal level, emphasizing that national stability and public prosperity must transcend political friction.

Delivering his winding-up speech at the PKR National Congress 2026 at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) today, the PKR President and Pakatan Harapan (PH) Chairman stressed that strategic political decisions should be guided by wisdom and public interest rather than personal ambitions, positions, or emotional anger.

“With what has happened recently, some have asked about our relationship with UMNO and BN. I say we must think carefully and exercise wisdom when making decisions,” Anwar said.

Addressing delegates regarding the future of the governing coalition, Anwar made clear his preference for continuity and economic focus.

“We choose stability and the people’s prosperity through economic growth, and we choose to continue working with UMNO-BN at the Federal level so that these two principles can be upheld,” he stated.

While noting that the decision on whether to remain in the administrative partnership ultimately rests with the leadership of UMNO and BN, Anwar declared that PKR and Pakatan Harapan remain fully prepared for any shift in the political landscape.

“Their choice, let them answer for it! As for us, as a party committed to the struggle, we are ready for whatever comes. If we have to go head-on, then we will,” he affirmed.

At the same time, the Prime Minister cautioned against extreme measures or hasty reactions that could undermine federal administrative cohesion. He noted that the initial formation of the Unity Government was born out of political maturity to safeguard the country’s broader interests.

Highlighting internal coalition dynamics, Anwar confirmed that his personal working relationship with Deputy Prime Minister and UMNO President Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi remains strong, expressing confidence that any emerging differences can be resolved through constructive dialogue. He added that while discussions at the state level may experience friction, no negative sentiments regarding cooperation have been raised at the Federal level.

Invoking the traditional Malay proverb, ‘Terbakar kampung nampak asap, terbakar hati siapa yang tahu’ (while signs of trouble may be visible, what lies beneath the surface may not be known), Anwar pointed out that complex political realities are not always visible on the surface, urging all sides to evaluate developments rationally.

Anwar concluded by extending his gratitude to Unity Government coalition allies—including DAP, Amanah, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)—for their ongoing commitment to maintaining federal stability.

“I thank them. Their request is that we continue this relationship until the end of the term, carry out our duties well, safeguard stability and advance the country’s development and economy,” Anwar said.

–NMT