Johor polls: Muhyiddin may not defend Gambir state seat

Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin said he has no plans to defend his state constituency of Gambir in the upcoming Johor state election.

Instead, he said he wants to step aside for a newcomer to take his place while he focuses on managing the party and national affairs.

“I may not contest, but it is up to the leadership. (I wish) to focus on bigger issues at the parliamentary level or federal level, managing the party, conveying the message of our cause, and so on.

“So, I want to give this chance to many talents in Johor especially for that seat, and I’ll leave it to whoever wants to take up that vacancy. We will decide on that later,” he said today as reported by Utusan Malaysia.

Muhyiddin, who is the Perikatan Nasional chairperson, is also the Pagoh MP.

The Johor state assembly was dissolved on Jan 22, paving the way for fresh elections to be held within 60 days. The Election Commission will meet on Feb 9 to decide key dates for the election including the polling date.

Muhyiddin said his party is prepared to field young candidates in the election.

“Yes, we want to give the opportunity. I understand now is the time for youths but a combination of the young and the old and mature is quite reasonable.

“No party would field young candidates only and sideline older people.

“But, that is still in preliminary stages and not yet final. When the candidate list is submitted by Srikandi and Bersatu Youth wings and coalition wings, I think we should give attention to that matter, God willing,” he added.

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