Johor BN’s Solo Election Strategy Ends State-Level Cooperation with Pakatan

JOHOR BARU: Johor Barisan Nasional’s (BN) decision to contest the upcoming state election independently has effectively shut the door on any political cooperation with Pakatan Harapan (PH) at the state level, according to Aminolhuda Hassan.

The Johor PH chairman said the announcement by Mentri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi that BN would contest all 56 seats sends a clear message about the coalition’s position.

“Even before the convention, Johor Amanah vice-president Suhaizan Kaiat had asked whether there would be Pakatan-Barisan cooperation for the state election. However, one day before the convention, they had already come out with such a statement,” he told reporters at the Persada International Convention Centre on Sunday (May 17).

When asked whether Pakatan remains open to cooperation with BN at the state level, Aminolhuda said the coalition does not want to appear overly eager.

“We do not want to be like the Malay saying ‘hidung tak mancung, pipi tersorong-sorong’ (trying too hard when not wanted). They have already acted that way, so be it. It’s okay. We are prepared, and this had already been anticipated earlier based on their response,” he said.

However, he stressed that ties between Pakatan and Barisan at the federal level remain strong, as highlighted by leaders from both sides.

“At the federal level, as Ahmad Maslan mentioned, there is no need to worry because we are still together,” he added.

Aminolhuda also noted that Johor BN’s stance makes it easier for Pakatan to determine its direction ahead of the convention and the upcoming state election.

On May 15, Onn Hafiz said BN would contest all 56 seats in the upcoming polls, although the election date has yet to be confirmed.

Speculation is growing that Johor could head for snap polls by October this year, especially following increased political activity surrounding Umno’s 80th anniversary celebrations at Istana Besar on May 11. However, no official announcement has been made.

The 15th Johor state election, held on March 12, 2022, saw BN secure 40 of the 56 seats, while Pakatan Harapan won 12, Perikatan Nasional three, and Muda one.

Of BN’s 40 seats, Umno holds 33, MCA four, and MIC three, underlining the coalition’s strong position in Johor politics ahead of the next election.