By Amar Shah Mohsen
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on all quarters to respect the results of the elections, which saw the status quo maintained in all states.
In a brief address to party supporters following the Election Commission's (EC) announcement late last night, the Pakatan Harapan chairman also urged party leaders and the people to unite for the sake of the nation.
"In a democratic system, we must respect the people's mandate and accept any result. This is the time for everyone from all parties, win or lose, to close ranks and maintain the peace in the country. We should focus on lifting the nation's dignity and protecting the people’s interests," he said at the World Trade Centre KL.
Anwar said the Unity Government willalso double its effort to serve the public, in line with its goal of developing Malaysia Madani.
"Starting Monday (August 14), we will work harder to achieve success," he said.
Separately, the Prime Minister attributed Harapan and Barisan Nasional's (BN) victories in Selangor, Penang, and Negeri Sembilan to the cooperation that they have forged over the past few months.
He also expressed gratitude to parties in Sabah and Sarawak from the Unity Government which have helped throughout the campaigning period.
Meanwhile, Anwar said in the event there should be any contention over the results of the elections, a protest will be done via the proper channels.
Earlier, EC chairman Tan Sri Abdul Ghani Salleh announced that Harapan has retained Selangor and Penang, while the coalition, together with BN, has secured two-thirds majority in Negeri Sembilan.
Perikatan Nasional, meanwhile, successfully defended Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah.
