Anwar demands accountability from PH candidates, urges Melaka voters to back coalition

PAKATAN Harapan (PH) candidates must prove their commitment to public service if elected in Saturday's Melaka state election, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim warning that winning power must not lead to arrogance or neglect of constituents.

Anwar, who is also PH chairman, said the coalition would strengthen monitoring of its elected representatives to ensure they remained accountable to voters and continued addressing problems faced by local communities.

"I want to issue a warning to our candidates. Hopefully, they will win. What is the warning? You must work and serve sincerely. Do not become arrogant, and do not forget 5am," he said at the Melaka Rumah Kita festival in Taman Melaka Perdana, Alor Gajah, on Thursday.

He said PH would establish a working mechanism to monitor the performance of its elected representatives and ensure they continued to discharge their responsibilities after securing the people's mandate.

"We believe in their capabilities, but we will still monitor them. And this is something I will improve," he said.

Anwar also reminded political leaders to use the opportunity to govern to implement meaningful changes rather than confining themselves to criticism after losing power.

He stressed that elected representatives must prioritise the needs of low-income groups and safeguard the welfare of their respective communities.

Earlier, during a walkabout at the Kampung Baru Machap night market, Anwar called on Malays, Chinese, Indians, Orang Asli and other communities to unite behind PH's 24 candidates in the election.

He said a strong mandate would give the coalition an opportunity to bring about changes in Melaka.

"I am here to show my support for Datuk Ginie Lim Siew Lin (PH candidate for the Machap Jaya state seat).

"We want to bring change, and I urge all Chinese, Indians, Malays, Orang Asli and everyone to unite in supporting PH," he said.

Also present were PH secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and PKR Wanita chief Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek.

PH is contesting 24 seats, including five currently held by the coalition — Bukit Katil, Ayer Keroh, Kesidang, Kota Laksamana and Bandar Hilir.

Anwar was also scheduled to attend campaign engagements in Ayer Molek and Hang Tuah Jaya before the Melaka Rumah Kita festival in Alor Gajah tonight. - November 13, 2026