The Simpang Renggam MP said the priority for political parties right now is to form a political coalition that is stable and moderate in order to lead Malaysia through future social and economic challenges.

“Therefore, Johor Umno is of the view that the coalition (government) formed does not need to include DAP,” he said in a statement.

Hasni also appeared to dismiss calls for Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to resign, saying the upcoming party election should be used as a framework for Umno’s restoration.

“Johor Umno believes that the Umno president will take clear responsibility (over BN’s poor performance in the general election) for the sake of the party and the Malay people.”

The former Johor menteri besar said it was crucial for the party to restore Malaysians’ confidence in BN and Umno.

While BN leaders had met Pakatan Harapan leaders at the Seri Pacific Hotel in Kuala Lumpur this morning, coalition chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said no discussions had been held yet.

Meanwhile, BN is also seeking an extension to the 2pm deadline set by Istana Negara to submit its prime ministerial candidate, with Umno vice-president Ismail Sabri Yaakob saying it cannot finalise its prime minister candidate by today.