LSN News › Malaysia

Politics · Malaysia Bureau

Anwar urges parties to abandon divisive racial politics amid desperation

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has renewed his appeal for political unity, warning parties against exploiting racial sentiments when facing electoral pressure. Speaking in Melaka, he called for a more principled approach to national discourse.

LSN Malaysia · 21 September 2026

MELAKA — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated his call for political parties to eschew divisive racial rhetoric, particularly when confronting mounting political challenges.

Addressing the issue in Melaka on September 21, the Prime Minister cautioned that resorting to racial card-playing represents a desperate and counterproductive political strategy that undermines national cohesion and democratic values.

Anwar's remarks underscore ongoing concerns about the tenor of Malaysian political discourse, where contentious issues related to race and religion continue to feature prominently in electoral campaigns and public debate. The Prime Minister has consistently advocated for a more inclusive political culture that prioritises national interests over factional gains.

His statement comes as Malaysia approaches a period of significant political activity, with various state and federal political dynamics in flux. Anwar's emphasis on unity reflects the government's broader agenda of stabilising the political landscape and fostering cross-party cooperation on matters of national importance.

The Prime Minister's appeal reflects broader efforts by the federal government to promote a more mature political culture focused on policy substance rather than divisive identity politics.