Replacing Dr Mahathir Mohamad as the prime minister is not a solution to racial issues as they will not suddenly disappear, said Bersatu Youth information chief Ulya Awamah Husamuddin.

He said this in response to PKR's Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Karim who called on Mahathir to make way to PKR president Anwar Ibrahim for allegedly failing to tackle several simmering issues with racial and religious overtones.

"Changing the prime minister is not the solution. Racial problems and issues need to be resolved with wisdom and tolerance amongst the stakeholders and component parties (in Pakatan Harapan)," he said in a statement.

Ulya said all ministers and MPs must play their role in de-escalating such situations.

"They should work together to clam the people, avoid tension and prevent the situation from becoming worse," he said.

Ulya said having Anwar take over now won't magically solve these problems.

He also stressed that the government's decision was done based on collective responsibility and therefore it is unfair to pin all the blame on Mahathir.

"All leaders should join forces and close ranks to face this test.

"Enough of finger-pointing and taking advantage. Continue working for the people," he said.