KLUANG – Perikatan Nasional (PN) acknowledges that the Mahkota state assembly seat presents a significant challenge, but the coalition remains hopeful of increasing its seat count in Johor.
Speaking to reporters, PN Information Chief Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali revealed that public dissatisfaction with the Unity Government and current political sentiments may help PN capture the Mahkota seat from Umno.
"I am viewing this from a realistic perspective, based on data, statistics, and current conditions.
"Mahkota is undoubtedly a tough seat for PN.
"Considering the voter demographics, with 54 per cent Malay and 45 per cent non-Malay voters, it is a challenging constituency for us.
"However, in politics, nothing is impossible. The current sentiment, especially dissatisfaction with the government over economic challenges and unemployment, may work in our favour," he said.
Azmin made these comments during a gathering at the voting district centre in Taman Ilham on Wednesday night.
He was responding to a recent statement by Pas Central Election Deputy Director Tan Sri Annuar Musa, who predicted that Barisan Nasional (BN) would comfortably retain the Mahkota seat.
Azmin further stressed the importance of deploying a robust campaign to connect with voters across all segments.
"Our team needs to work diligently and plan strategically if we want to win.
"I’m confident we can. Many areas that were considered BN strongholds have shifted, as seen in Selangor.
"Selangor should already be a PN-led state, and with determination and smart strategies, there’s no reason we can't achieve the same in Mahkota," he added.
The Mahkota by-election, held following the death of incumbent Datuk Sharifah Azizah Syed Zain on Aug 2, is a straight fight between Syed Hussien Syed Abdullah and PN candidate Mohamad Haizan Jaafar.
The Election Commission (EC) has set Sept 28 as polling day, while early voting takes place on Sept 24.