BN-PH face-off in Johor state election

The political landscape of Johor is set for a significant contest as the 16th Johor State Election officially commenced. The election will see a direct clash between two major coalitions, Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH), who are vying for all 56 seats in the State Legislative Assembly.

Perikatan Nasional (PN) is participating in 33 constituencies, while Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) is contesting 15 seats. Other parties, including Parti Ikatan Demokratik Malaysia (Muda) with four seats, and single candidates from Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) and Parti Orang Asli Malaysia (Asli), along with six independent candidates, round out the field.

Election Commission (EC) chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun confirmed that 172 candidates are in the running, with all nomination forms accepted. The election features a diverse range of contests, including three five-cornered battles, twelve four-cornered fights, 27 three-cornered contests, and 14 straight one-on-one matchups. The oldest candidate is 73, while the youngest is 23.

The campaign period, which began officially yesterday, will last for 14 days, ending at midnight on July 10. Early voting is scheduled for July 7, and the main polling day is set for July 11. Johor Police Chief Datuk Ab. Rahaman Arsad reported that the nomination process was smooth, with no incidents of provocation. The EC has approved 26 campaign permits so far, with more expected.