Identity politics at 'extraordinary' levels, Harapan leader says over N Sembilan defeat

BN and Perikatan Nasional's resounding victory in the Negeri Sembilan polls was driven by identity politics and communal rhetoric, said Pakatan Harapan election director Amirudin Shari.

Describing the messaging as having reached "extraordinary" levels, Amirudin (above) also said the tactics used by Harapan's opponents almost entirely sowed divisive elements, sparking anxiety among a multi-racial public.

"I believe this will continue to create anxiety and suspicion among the people, especially between Malays and non-Malays," he told a press conference in Seremban last night.

Also present were former state menteri besar Aminuddin Harun, as well as Amanah leaders Khalid Samad, Sany Hamzan, and Faiz Fadzil.

Amirudin, who is also the PKR vice-president and Selangor menteri besar, asserted that identity politics do not help efforts to develop the state or country.

"Focus should instead be given to basic issues affecting the public, such as the local economy, job opportunities, children's education, the cost of living, and welfare.

"However, these matters were ignored by the opposition throughout the campaign," he claimed.

In yesterday's polls, BN and PN managed to consolidate Malay votes and bag 25 seats for a two-thirds majority in the state, while Harapan was relegated to 11 seats.

READ MORE: BN-PN 'Malay unity' wave coming, and Harapan is in danger

Commenting on Harapan's defeat, Amirudin rejected suggestions that the result stemmed from public anger against the federal or state administrations.

"Based on the voting trend, it was identity politics - look back at the state administration under Tok Min (Aminuddin) under Harapan; the Negeri Sembilan government performed well.

"So, we feel the issue of voters being disappointed with the state and federal government does not exist," he said.

Commendable support from Malays

Aminuddin added that despite the massive wave of identity politics in Malay-majority areas, which poses a concern for national politics, Malay voter support for Harapan in Negeri Sembilan remained commendable compared to other states.

"For example, in the Pilah state seat, Harapan only lost by around 800 votes.

"We tried our best (by) conveying messages through walkabouts and social media, but it was not to be.

"The issue here is whether it was Malay or non-Malay... the ratio of our non-Malay voters remains very convincing," he added.

Meanwhile, Aminuddin said he accepted the election results.

READ MORE: Loke and Aminuddin defeated in Negeri Sembilan

Aminuddin, who lost his bid for the Linggi state seat, conceded that a performance-based campaign failed to counter communal sentiment.

"I accept whatever decision the people made - perhaps my report card was still not good enough. I have no issue with it - this is normal in politics," the Port Dickson MP said.

"This time, I campaigned on work performance, not race. I may have lost in Linggi due to racial politics, (but I will) continue to do the best for the people and safeguard the state.

"I harbour no bitterness," he assured, adding that God's plan has its own wisdom as he can now spend more time with his family and grandchildren after serving as an assemblyperson since 2008.

‘Loke, Aminuddin still play key roles’

Meanwhile, Amirudin emphasised that Aminuddin and DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, who failed to retain his Chennah state seat, still play key roles as lawmakers.

"They still have a role to play in Negeri Sembilan (and) can contribute to the state as well as Harapan.

"DAP remains with Harapan, and I am certain DAP will not join BN or PN," Amirudin said.

When asked about preparations for the upcoming Malacca state election, Amirudin quipped that the decision rests with that state's leadership.

"Whether we like it or not, we must be prepared for Malacca. As for when, you have to ask (state chief minister) Ab Rauf Yusoh; it is not my decision," he said.

READ MORE: Malacca next, Zahid says after BN victory in N Sembilan

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