DECLINING public support for the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government is only temporary as the opposition is relying on racial and religious sentiments, said Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu today.

Speaking to the media after coalition’s anniversary celebrations in Putrajaya today, Mohamad said the government’s arguments will prove true and the people will support PH for the 15th general election.

“The declining support is only temporary. They (the opposition) are saying that non-Muslims are in power, but now that the chief justice (Tengku Maimum Tuan Mat) is a Malay woman, they are silent.

“They can only last for so long relying on racial arguments. I am confident that come GE15, the rakyat will see that our arguments are true.”

A recent poll by Merdeka Centre found PH’s approval ratings down to 46% from last August’s 71%. Only 39% of Malaysian polled rated the one-year-old government positively.

Mohamad and other ministers were present at the celebrations to hear Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s special address.

Dr Mohamad said those who lost power in GE14 are now using the name of Islam and Malay solidarity to oppose PH.

Mohamad said Dr Mahathir’s speech is centred on the concept of shared prosperity, and that all Malaysians will be able to enjoy a fair share of the country’s economic gains.

Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said that the government hopes no Malaysian will be left behind.

“We hope that we will be given a chance to fulfil our promises. Shared prosperity is key here. No person will be left behind.

“Dr Mahathir is promising to close and fill the (economic and social) gaps.” – May 9, 2019