We retain three states, says Anwar in brief speech

KUALA LUMPUR - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said they have won three states in Selangor, Negeri Sembilan and Penang.

He further said they won due to the unity within Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional, among others who had helped them retain the status quo.

"The decision is the decision of the rakyat.

"We respect the decision made. This is part of democracy," he said at World Trade Centre, here, tonight.

He said the "heat" was high, preferably referring to Perikatan Nasional's victory in three other states, adding that the focus now is to ensure the country moves forward.

"I give assurance the federal government remains and we will continue to work harder to develop the country according to Madani principles," he said in a short speech.

He also thanked the police and the machinery for ensure the polls runs smoothly.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Umno's number two Mohamad Hasan along with other Umno and PH leaders.

Perikatan Nasional has officially won Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu while PH-BM won Selangor, Negeri Sembilan and Penang.

Malaysians voted today to elect six state governments, after a two-week heated campaign filled with intense rhetoric from both sides, with each coalition hoping to woo support through manifestos and election pledges.

About 9.7 million voters were eligible to vote today at 245 state assembly seats across Selangor, Penang, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu.

Neither Anwar or Zahid had a press conference tonight. All leaders left the Umno headquarters after the speech.

Despite chants of 'Malaysia Boleh' after Anwar's brief speech, the overall environment remained subdued as Perikatan Nasional made inroads into urban seats in Selangor such as Hulu Kelang, Taman Medan and Taman Melawati.