Sole BN rep in Penang govt calls for continued ties with PH

Rashidi Zinol, the sole Barisan Nasional (BN) representative in Penang's government, has urged for continued collaboration between his coalition and Pakatan Harapan (PH). As the chairman of the state rural development, agrotechnology, food security, and entrepreneurship committee, Rashidi has reported working harmoniously with colleagues from PKR and DAP over the past three years.

He emphasized that their cooperation was founded on mutual respect, understanding, effective communication, and a shared commitment to the state's development.

Rashidi stressed that differences in party backgrounds should not hinder their ability to work together, as long as their primary goal remains the effective administration of the state government and the well-being of the people. He highlighted that the relationship between PH and BN established after the 2023 state election represents a political understanding that should be valued and strengthened.

Chow Kon Yeow, Penang's Chief Minister and PH chairman, had recently announced that Penang's PH had unanimously decided to retain Rashidi in the state administration. However, DAP adviser Lim Guan Eng has called for Umno to be removed from the Penang government due to BN's alliance with Perikatan Nasional in Negeri Sembilan. Yet, Chief Minister Chow clarified that the state PH leadership had not received any directive from central leadership on this matter.

He urged party leaders to allow the PH presidential council to address the strained relationship between PH and BN.

Rashidi further expressed his support for maintaining and strengthening the unity government until its term ends. He argued that political stability is not merely about parties or positions, but about the ability to work together, respect differences, and resolve matters affecting the rakyat. Rashidi reiterated the importance of maintaining good cooperation, acknowledging that differences can be celebrated, but the rakyat's interests should always take precedence.