KJ: Malaysia must consider 3 factors before GE

Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin told reporters in Singapore that Malaysia has to consider three factors before calling for a general election while noting the timing is entirely the prerogative of the prime minister.

The three factors are the country’s readiness in terms of public health, the momentum of the economic recovery, and political considerations.

Khairy, who is in Singapore for four days since May 31, said this when asked about Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob’s statement yesterday that he “will not delay, even for a second”, the dissolution of Parliament “once BN is fully prepared”.

“We have to look out for new variants… to know the waves of infection,” Khairy responded.

“Right now it is okay, but I need to be confident that this can be sustained,” he said explaining the public health factor.

On economic recovery, he said Malaysia is lucky that it is a goods-producing country even though it is currently confronted with inflationary pressure.

“We have palm oil... we have some engines of growth that are pushing the economy forward… so we want to get economic momentum there,” he said.

On political consideration, the Rembau MP said BN itself should be ready to face the election.

“We need to make sure that BN is ready. It is not just the country is ready, there has to be a conducive environment for elections,” he said.

“There has to be momentum. We are just starting to see the start of the recovery. And secondly, is there any real big urgency to have the election? I don't think so.

“Of course, many people say political stability. Decisive victory. Yes, but, what's the difference between this year and next year?”

Khairy also spoke to those who have been calling for an election as soon as possible.

“I don't think those wanting the elections are the ones who are thinking about preparing the election machinery and the resources... with the right people... with the right slate of candidates to contest in the general election.

“It is not a state election. This is a general election. This is serious, and I think PM (prime minister) is well aware that we need time to ready ourselves for both the country, as well as the party.

“My message to people, also our party leaders who say we should have an election now, we respect your views... but stay in your lane... calling for an election is the prime minister's lane... you're not in that lane,” he said.

- Bernama