KUALA LUMPUR – The upcoming Johor election will likely see the electoral debut of Parti Bangsa Malaysia (PBM), with the newly formed party seeking to test its abilities.
In a statement today, PBM deputy president Haniza Mohamed Talha said that the high likelihood is based on the latest political developments, statistics and feedback from the ground.
“PBM will only field candidates in areas where the leaders have served the people there and are known to the electorate as this will increase the chances of candidates winning,” she said.
Haniza, who is also the current state assemblywoman of Lembah Jaya in Selangor, said however that discussions on the debut are still ongoing among leaders of the party.
The former PKR women chief and former Selangor state exco further expressed her confidence in her current party being able to win voters based on its principles of inclusivity.
“PBM is a strong multiracial party and this is a unifying factor for all Malaysians as we are all seen as one Bangsa Malaysia regardless of race, colour, or creed.
“As someone who was once from a multiracial party, as time passed, it diverted from its original course to bring reform,” she claimed, adding that her decision to join PBM was due to the party’s dedication to important agendas.
“PBM is also pushing for more women and youth representation in elections. These untapped talents will certainly contribute towards nation building and a better economy.
“Some of our future plans include roadshows to all 14 PBM states, meetings with political leaders and new members, as well as promoting PBM to all through programmes and engagements with the people,” she said.
On January 23, PBM information chief Zakaria Abdul Hamid said that the party is considering contesting in the upcoming Johor election, in what will be its first taste of the poll following its formation late last year.
The statements from the party follows Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar’s consenting on January 22 to dissolve the state assembly, paving way for a fresh election.
The decision was made after an audience with Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Hasni Mohammad. Umno has been pushing for fresh elections in the state, citing political instability.
The Umno-led government currently has 28 seats in the state assembly, just one more than Pakatan Harapan. – The Vibes, January 31, 2022
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