BN victory in Johor crucial step to reclaiming federal power, says Zahid

PETALING JAYA: Barisan Nasional chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said a victory in the Johor state election will be crucial in helping the coalition return to federal power at the next general election.

BN is currently part of the Pakatan Harapan-led unity government.

Zahid said a BN win in Johor will build momentum ahead of the Negeri Sembilan and Melaka state elections, Utusan Malaysia reported.

He said Johor will set a a benchmark for the subsequent state elections.

Negeri Sembilan will hold its election on Aug 1, and Melaka following that although the term of its state legislative assembly only ends on Dec 30.

“God willing, victory in Johor will also translate into victories elsewhere,” Zahid, who is also the deputy prime minister, was quoted as saying.

He said these state elections will be followed by the 16th general election.

“We hope victories in these three states will inspire the BN leadership and machinery across the country, enabling us to be at the forefront of a new national political landscape,” he said.

Commenting on the July 11 Johor polls, in which BN is contesting all 56 state seats, Zahid said the coalition’s campaign has continuously gained momentum since nominations on June 27.

He felt that attempts by rivals to raise “old issues”, such as those revolving around former prime minister Najib Razak, had little impact in Johor.

“My advice to them (BN’s rivals) is to be more professional even if we have different views on certain issues. Stop bringing up unrelated matters,” he said.