PAS-splinter Parti Barisan Jemaah Islamiah SeMalaysia (Berjasa) has identified eight candidates to stand in the coming14th general election.

Party chairperson Mustapa Kamal Maulut told reporters that the candidates would be standing in eight Selangor state seats - Batang Kali, Kota Damansara, Semenyih, Jeram, Pelabuhan Klang, Dengkil, Kuang and Hulu‎ Bernam.

“Berjasa is ready to provide a new option to the people, aside from existing parties, whether on the government or opposition front, said Mustafa Kamal during a press conference at Batu Caves today.

Asked for reasons behind Berjasa choosing the eight seats, Mustapa said the decision was based on the party’s research that identified possible victories in those areas.

“We have chosen to contest in areas that we can win, based on observations and research by our strategists. The victory will allow Berjasa to contribute as the defender of the people,” he said.

With exception of Pelabuhan Kelang, the remaining seven seats are currently held by Umno.

NGO Ikatan Muslimin Malaysia (ISMA) had reportedly fielded nine parliamentary candidates on the Berjasa ticket during GE13 in 2013, targeting Malay-majority constituencies contested by non-Malay candidates from BN component parties against PKR and DAP.

Mustapa, as such, urged all opposition parties and particularly from Pakatan Harapan, to make way for Berjasa to contest in a straight fight against BN in GE14.

“This is following several statements made by opposition party leaders who have urged for discussions to be held with the aim to ensure a straight fight against BN in GE14.

“We (Berjasa) are also ready to discuss and cooperate with any parties towards the same aim,” he said.

The latest call for a united opposition against BN was made following the setting-up of Umno splinter Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), and its cooperation with the Pakatan Harapan federal opposition coalition.