JOHOR BAHRU, May 17, 2026 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim delivered a fiery keynote address at the Pakatan Harapan (PH) 2026 Convention today, blending poetry with a strong political message as he warned against threats from coalition partners and affirmed PH’s resolve to fight for the people’s mandate.
Speaking at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre, Anwar opened with a poetic verse emphasising unity, resilience, and unwavering commitment:
“Meja rundingan, pentas perdebatan,
Setiap ruang jadi medan ikatan.
Tiada gentar, tiada kebimbangan,
Selagi perjuangan memahat wawasan.”
He stressed that PH’s strength stems not from anger but from confidence in addressing real issues faced by Malaysians, particularly the cost of living, job opportunities, education, and economic stability.
The event, which drew around 5,000 delegates, focused on preparations for upcoming state elections and the 16th General Election (GE16). Anwar highlighted government achievements, including minimum wage increases, poverty reduction, and incentives for civil servants and GLC employees, as displayed on stage screens during the convention.
In a pointed message amid recent tensions with Barisan Nasional (BN) components in the unity government, Anwar declared PH’s preference for negotiation and stability (bil hikmah) but rejected any perception of weakness:
“Kita memilih pendekatan bil hikmah, berunding dengan baik dan menjaga kestabilan demi kepentingan negara. Namun pendekatan itu jangan sesekali dibaca sebagai kelemahan.
Jika mereka mahu berunding dengan baik, kita berunding dengan baik. Tetapi kalau mereka memilih untuk bertempur, kita akan bertempur dengan penuh keyakinan dan kekuatan.”
He added that PH would not yield to threats and is prepared to return the mandate to the rakyat through elections at state or national levels if necessary. “Kita tidak makan ugutan,” he said, referencing past experiences of betrayal and political manoeuvring.
The convention featured a vibrant atmosphere with red-themed branding, enthusiastic supporters, and leaders from PKR, DAP, and Amanah. Images from the event showed Anwar engaging with crowds, greeting supporters, and addressing the packed hall.
PH leaders, including Anwar, launched state election machinery for Johor during the event, signalling heightened readiness for polls.
The speech comes a day after reports of BN signalling independent contestation in certain areas, escalating coalition frictions. Analysts see Anwar’s remarks as a firm stance to consolidate PH’s position ahead of key electoral battles.
PH remains committed to clean governance and people-centric policies under the Malaysia MADANI framework, with the convention reinforcing unity within the coalition.
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