Barisan Nasional has decided to retain its established seat allocation formula for future elections, though adjustments will be made to acknowledge the enduring loyalty of its allied partners.
Chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that this approach is vital to ensuring that political cooperation within the coalition is represented through a fair and balanced distribution of seats.
The Umno president highlighted that the coalition deeply values the support from leaders of all component parties and the allied groups known as Friends of BN.
These groups, which include the Malaysian Indian Muslim Congress (Kimma), Makkal Sakti, the Indian Progressive Front, and the Malaysian Indian United Party, have consistently upheld the coalition’s cause.
Speaking at a press conference after officiating Kimma’s 46th annual general meeting at World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur today, the chairman noted that these partners have previously been given opportunities to contest and that this practice would continue under the oversight of the secretary-general.
Strategic preparations for state elections
The coalition is currently focusing its efforts on the upcoming elections in Melaka, Johor, and Perak.
While preparations have commenced early, the chairman cautioned that relying solely on the support of existing party members would not be enough to secure a victory at the polls.
He emphasized the need for the party machinery to adopt a more aggressive strategy to win over voters who fall outside the traditional support base.
Reaching out to a broader demographic is seen as a priority for the coalition as it seeks to strengthen its political standing in these key states.
The chairman further urged members and machinery to begin their outreach efforts immediately.
He stressed that work should not be delayed until the official dissolution of state assemblies or the announcement of specific election dates, calling for a proactive approach to voter engagement.
Personal views on election timing
Addressing a recent suggestion by Umno supreme council member Ahmad Maslan regarding the possible postponement of the Johor and Melaka state polls, the chairman clarified the official position of the leadership. He stated that such a proposal was merely a personal opinion.
He made it clear that the suggestion to delay the elections does not represent the formal stance of either Umno or the broader Barisan Nasional coalition.
The focus remains on readiness and ensuring that the machinery is fully prepared whenever the polls are called.
The coalition remains committed to its current roadmap, prioritizing unity among its core members and allied partners to ensure a cohesive front during the upcoming electoral contests.
