Ahead of the Johor state election, caretaker Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has defended his coalition’s stance against partnering with the Democratic Action Party (DAP). He clarified that the Johor Barisan Nasional’s (BN) position is a political one, not rooted in racial prejudice. This statement comes amidst increasing discussion regarding potential alliances as the election nears. Ghazi emphasized a distinction between political strategy and racial considerations. The move signals BN’s intent to contest the election independently of DAP, despite potential collaboration with other parties. This position aims to appeal to voters based on political alignment rather than ethnic identity, according to observers. The state election is expected to be closely contested, with various coalitions vying for power.