JOHOR BAHRU - Datuk Yahya Jaafar who will be contesting for the Johor Bahru Umno division chief post for the first time is determined to bring new approaches to the party.
The Umno division deputy chief said Umno must gain the trust of the people through a new approach involving the youths.
"Honestly, we are bringing hope for Umno to change its approach, we can no longer use the old methods.
"We must help from the grassroots level... besides, YB Shahrir (Tan Sri Shahrir Samad) has led Umno (Johor Bahru division) for 40 years, let's give room for those who want to contest.
"Even though I am reaching 60 years old, this is my last time to do this for the continuity of the party, we need a voice from the grassroots to rise again," he said, today.
He will be contesting against Johor Umno Youth chief Mohd Hairi Mad Shah for the post.
Yahya started his political career in 1985 as the Padi Huma Umno branch chief in Bandar Baru Uda until his current position as Johor Bahru Umno division deputy chief.
Commenting about contesting against Hairi, Yahya said it was a healthy competition.
"He (Hairi) has a name for himself and he is a YB (people's representative), but it is a healthy competition.
"If he thinks he is more than worthy, I think I am more than worthy too, what is important is that we are both contesting," he said.