Skudai assemblyman Marina Ibrahim has announced that she will not defend her seat in the next Johor state election, becoming the first incumbent elected representative to confirm her withdrawal ahead of the coming polls.
The DAP lawmaker said the decision was made after discussions with her family and close supporters, bringing months of speculation over her political future to an end amid growing expectations of a state election.
Marina, who is serving her first term as an assemblyman, said she plans to return to community-based work, describing grassroots service as a cause that has always remained close to her heart.
“I have decided not to contest and to withdraw from the political arena,” she told the New Straits Times.
Decision follows discussions with family and supporters
Marina said her decision was reached after careful consideration and consultation with those closest to her.
Although she did not provide specific reasons for stepping away from politics, she indicated that every stage of life eventually reaches its conclusion and that the move should not be seen as the end of her service to the public.
She stressed that her commitment to helping the community would continue even after leaving elected office.
Won Skudai with strong majority in 2022
In the 2022 Johor state election, Marina secured the Skudai seat for Pakatan Harapan with a majority of more than 13,000 votes, defeating candidates from Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional.
Her victory marked the beginning of her first term as the constituency’s elected representative.
Despite her decision not to seek another term, Marina said she would continue carrying out her responsibilities as assemblyman until a successor is elected.
Pledges continued service to the community
Marina also expressed gratitude to supporters, volunteers and members of her team who had contributed throughout her tenure.
“If there were weaknesses or matters that fell short of the expectations of some parties, I sincerely apologise. I am only human,” she said.
She thanked those who had supported her journey in public office and reiterated her intention to remain involved in serving the community beyond politics.
