Kuala Lampur, July 7 -- Malaysia's democracy cannot be strengthened by opaque political understandings that are never openly acknowledged yet are widely suspected.

Whether clandestine ethno-nationalist pacts actually exist should ultimately be determined by evidence rather than speculation.

But the broader principle remains clear. Politics founded upon hidden ethnic understandings rather than transparent policy commitments weakens public confidence.

The Johor state election is one of the most important political contests before the next general election.

Its outcome will shape perceptions about coalition stability, political momentum and the future direction of Malaysian politics.

For that reason, every political party should compete...