Pulai emerges as crucial battleground following lacklustre state election performance, says expert
SHAH ALAM - Pulai has become a crucial battleground following Pakatan Harapan (PH)'s lacklustre performance in the recent state election, says experts.
International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) Political Science Association Professor Dr. Syaza Shukri believes there is a 50-50 possibility in Pulai, considering the recent developments.
"This statement reflects a sense of uncertainty and an even chance of different outcomes in the electoral contest in Pulai.
"It suggests that the situation is currently balanced, and it's difficult to predict which side will ultimately prevail," Syaza told Sinar Daily.
However, this uncertainty may be due to changing voter sentiments, campaign strategies, or other factors that make the election outcome unpredictable at this time, she continued.
Meanhwile, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Political Science Professor Datuk Dr Jayum Anak Jawan said following PH's lacklustre performance in the recent state election, Pulai has become a crucial battleground.
Winning here is vital for PH to regain lost ground.
"Pulai and Simpang Jeram hold immense significance; losing either would add strain to the already fragile unity government.
"This underscores PH's need to strengthen its position and reaffirm commitment to constituents," Jayum explained.
Further there is also a concern regarding Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's discharge of court cases, Jayum mentioned that it's true that Zahid has been acquitted.
Still, it's essential to remember that this doesn't necessarily mean he's entirely out of legal jeopardy.
The charges against him (Zahid) could potentially be reinstated if the Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) were to gather more compelling evidence in the future.
"This legal uncertainty means that Zahid can't afford to rest easy just yet.
"He remains under the shadow of possible legal proceedings, which can have a significant impact on his political career and public perception."
Hence, this ongoing legal situation adds an element of unpredictability to the political landscape, making it a subject of continued attention and speculation.
Meanwhile, Institut Kajian Etnik (KITA), Political Sociology, Professor Datuk Dr. Shamsul Amri Baharuddin stated the recent legal developments that saw the acquittal of politicians such as Zahid and Bung Mokhtar could potentially impact the voter turnout and decisions of DAP supporters in the upcoming election.
"Some DAP voters may be less motivated to participate or may even consider supporting candidates from the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition.
"This change in voter behavior is worth monitoring, as it could influence the election outcome and the dynamics of political representation," said Shamsul.
