Mukhriz said Pejuang is also open to working with non-Malay parties and organisations, emphasising that this stance is not at odds with promoting the Malay agenda.

“This is because the Malay agenda has never harmed other communities. In fact, improving the wellbeing of the Malay community, many of whom remain left behind in the nation’s progress, will ultimately benefit fellow citizens from other ethnic backgrounds.

“Only when the Malay majority is united can we achieve a more inclusive form of national unity,” he said at Pejuang’s annual general meeting at the Ideal Convention Centre here today.

Present at the event were Mahathir, the party’s founder, and leaders from Perikatan Nasional, including PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan and Bersatu vice-president Ahmad Faizal Azumu.

The presence of MIC secretary-general S Ananthan and executive secretary AT Kumararajah also drew attention.

Last month, Mahathir launched the Sekretariat Orang Melayu, a platform meant to unite the community and “restore Malay power” in the government.

The former Umno president, who later led Bersatu, Pejuang, and Gerakan Tanah Air, clarified that the coalition is not a formal political party, but a loose alliance aimed at rallying the Malay community under a common cause.

Mukhriz also said Pejuang would continue cooperating with PN to build a strong opposition bloc to face off against Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional in the 16th general election.

He noted that Pejuang supported PN in the August 2023 state elections by making way for the coalition’s candidates, despite previously holding several seats in Kedah and Selangor.

“Pejuang backed PN in the state elections, and PN went on to win all four seats in question,” he said.