“I know the ballots are confidential, but I urge (Umno members) to see the (DAP) candidates as representing the unity government, not the party,” he said in a press conference here today.

The Pontian MP also reminded Umno members to obey party orders and set aside their personal differences for the sake of stability.

Former foes Umno and DAP are both part of the unity government, which comprises Pakatan Harapan (PH), Barisan Nasional (BN), Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS).

The government is also supported by Warisan, Muda, Parti Bangsa Malaysia (PBM), and independents.

Ahmad was asked if Umno members were willing to vote for DAP candidates in the upcoming state elections.

DAP candidates will be contesting in the upcoming state polls on a Pakatan Harapan (PH) ticket, as they did in the last general election (GE15).

Six states – PH-controlled Penang, Selangor and Negeri Sembilan; and PAS-ruled Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah – are expected to dissolve their legislative assemblies by the end of June.

According to Election Commission rules, an election must be held within 60 days after the end of the term or the dissolution of the state assembly.