Can Noh Omar and Azmin revamp Selangor's political landscape?

SHAH ALAM - After a period of seclusion following his expulsion from Umno for allegedly sabotaging the party during the 15th General Election campaign, former Umno Selangor chairman Tan Sri Noh Omar confirmed his membership in the Bersatu on July 4.

After being ousted from Umno, he was dropped from contesting the Tanjong Karang parliamentary seat, which he had represented for six terms.

Noh said that the High Court's decision to reject Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak's application for home detention spurred him to join Bersatu.

The former entrepreneur development and cooperatives minister claimed that his entry into Bersatu under Perikatan Nasional (PN) was not motivated by rank or position but by his belief that his partnership with Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali could transform the political landscape in Selangor.

Agreeing with this sentiment, Sultan Zainal Abidin University (UniSZA) International Studies Centre head Dr Hussain Yusri Zawawi observed that the combined power of Noh and Azmin through PN has the potential to shake up Selangor, especially since the party won 22 state legislative assembly seats in the last state election.

"Azmin and Noh are two experienced political figures. Noh has significant influence, especially among Malay voters, while Azmin, as a former Selangor Menteri Besar, has demonstrated effective state governance.

"The combination of their experience and influence can instill confidence in voters that they can bring positive change.

"Strong cooperation between Bersatu, the Gerakan, and Pas can ensure political stability and a stronger administration," he told Sinar when contacted.

However, the success of this duo also depends on how they address local issues close to the hearts of Selangor residents, including the cost of living, affordable housing, health, education, and employment opportunities.

"Therefore, PN needs to show a high commitment to resolving these issues and offer practical and effective solutions," he added.

Hussain said Noh's entry could also help Bersatu garner more voter support, particularly in areas that were previously Umno strongholds.

"Noh's loyal supporters may also join in supporting Bersatu, thereby strengthening the party's position in Malaysian politics.

"This is because Noh is an experienced political figure with a long and excellent service record," he said.

Although Noh's presence in Bersatu could strengthen the party, Hussain did not deny that his entry might be seen as a threat to certain leaders within Bersatu.

"As an influential figure, Noh might bring different ideas and approaches that could cause tension among the existing leadership.

"Some leaders might feel threatened by his presence, fearing the loss of influence or positions within the party.

"To ensure Noh's entry is well received, Bersatu's leadership needs to ensure that his participation is seen as a strategic move that benefits the party as a whole.

"Perception and internal communication within Bersatu are crucial. This can be achieved through clear and open communication with party members, explaining the rationale behind Noh's entry and how it strengthens Bersatu," he said.

He further noted that to maximise the benefits of Noh's entry, cooperation and unity among Bersatu leaders are crucial.

"Bersatu leaders need to collaborate with Noh to leverage his experience and expertise for the party's benefit.

"This can help strengthen Bersatu's political strategy, expand its influence, and attract more voter support.

"Noh's entry should be viewed in the context of Bersatu and PN's long-term strategy.

"If Bersatu manages his entry well, it can help strengthen PN's position in Malaysian politics," he added.

Solid administrative foundation

Meanwhile, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) ethnic studies institute deputy director Professor Dr Kartini Aboo Talib @ Khalid, said the Noh and Azmin combination in PN is extraordinary because of their extensive experience in understanding the intricacies of bureaucracy, governance, and current directives in Selangor.

"The Noh and Azmin combination will sustain PN. I believe this combination will be well-received by the local population due to its strong leadership and administrative foundation.

"PN welcomes prominent figures like Noh because young leaders still need to be nurtured and supported with strong political strategies," she said.

However, Kartini stated there would be constraints regarding the younger generation's aspirations, as they tend to prefer leaders of their age who are believed to understand their needs better.

"Young voters usually have different tastes and directions, which might create obstacles for PN.

"Various factors influence voting, and it should not be narrowed down to just the candidates' figures.

"I believe each area has its own strength indicators. If Noh and Azmin join forces in one party, their extensive experience and excellent track records will be key to winning," she said.