Anwar acknowledged that the party was relatively weaker in Johor when it comes to state seats, but said negotiations should also take into account PKR’s strength of support at the parliamentary level.

“I ask the state leadership to negotiate well with our allies. When it comes to Umno, discuss via the right channels, but do not break our spirit and stand.

“Although PKR’s performance here is relatively weak, no one can dispute that we have been able to consistently win multiple parliamentary seats in Johor,” he said at the Johor PKR convention.

Anwar, who is also prime minister, also reminded members that holding divisional leadership posts did not automatically mean they would be nominated by PKR for the state polls.

He said leaders must strengthen their support at the grassroots level while improving their election machinery before setting their sights on seats.

“I will not sign off on the watikah (appointment letter of candidates) if I don’t see an organised and efficient division.

“If you can’t perform at the division level, don’t demand to be a candidate,” said the Pakatan Harapan chairman.

Anwar also said he welcomed constructive criticism if done appropriately, naming Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Karim as an example of a leader who has been outspoken in a positive manner.

“He is firm, sometimes stubborn, but speaks out in an appropriate manner.”

The Umno-led Barisan Nasional coalition formed the Johor government after the 2022 state assembly polls, winning 40 of the 56 state seats up for grabs.

PH won 12 seats, with DAP winning 10 and PKR and Amanah taking one each. Perikatan Nasional won three seats while Muda secured one.