Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir, chairman of the Homeland Fighters Party (Pejuang), stated that the party is discussing with parties other than Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) about the possibility of cooperation in the Sabah and other state elections.
He mentioned that Pejuang still intends to participate in the democratic process of the country.
Mukhriz, speaking at the Hari Raya open house event of Pejuang at the Perdana Leadership Foundation in Putrajaya, said the party is interested in contesting in the Sabah state election but acknowledged that Pejuang is not a large party, thus is exploring the possibility of forming alliances with other parties.
He admitted that he initially thought the party's support in Sabah was limited, but in reality, it's the opposite, as the membership numbers in Sabah are "quite acceptable."
He stated that the party has decided in two days of meetings to participate in the Sabah state election.
“Therefore, we believe we can discuss with other parties. (With which parties?) We definitely do not have cordial relations with UMNO and PH, so discussions are open with other parties.”
Asked about under which banner Pejuang would contest in the Sabah state election, Mukhriz said it has not been finalized.
When asked about Pejuang's future positioning, Mukhriz stated that the party regularly discusses the latest political situation, including its role in national politics, and has realized that the party's previous positioning is no longer suitable.
“As Tun Mahathir mentioned, we are currently in a competitive situation among Malay parties, and we believe that what Pejuang needs to do now is provide added value to Malay parties.”
He cited, for example, Mahathir's leadership in the Malays' political unity through the "Malay Declaration," which Pejuang strongly supports and is looking for a space that Pejuang can fill.
When asked if this implies preparation for the national and state elections, Mukhriz only mentioned that besides the Sabah state election, there might also be elections in Melaka and Johor.
Many party and non-governmental organization representatives attended today's Hari Raya open house, including MCA Secretary-General Datuk Chong Sin Woon, Bersatu Vice-President Datuk Mohd Razi, and former Foreign Minister Tan Sri Syed Hamid.