Negeri Sembilan election to reveal PH's true strength: Analyst

Negeri Sembilan is poised to reveal the genuine strength of Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the upcoming state election, according to a senior lecturer at Universiti Utara Malaysia. Dr. Mohd Rashdan Sallehuddin suggests that unlike Johor, a long-standing UMNO stronghold, Negeri Sembilan will demonstrate PH's influence under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

Dr. Rashdan highlighted the continuity of PH's administration and the excellent performance of the current Menteri Besar as crucial factors for success. He also pointed to the strong relationship between the state and federal governments as a key advantage, facilitating economic benefits for the people of Negeri Sembilan. "Unlike the political landscape in Johor, PH still holds significant influence based on previous election results in Negeri Sembilan," he stated.

PH secured 20 out of 36 seats in the state legislative assembly in the 14th General Election. For the upcoming election, PH aims to win at least 23 seats to ensure a stable government. Dr. Rashdan emphasized that it is unfair to compare Johor with Negeri Sembilan, as the latter has been led by a PH Menteri Besar with a proven track record of excellent service, free from scandals, despite facing challenges.

He further noted that Aminuddin Harun has brought about numerous positive changes and improvements in the state's economy, investment, development, and zakat collection over his eight years in office. These achievements, coupled with the public's positive perception of Anwar and PH's effective governance, are expected to resonate with voters, who are increasingly aware of national economic performance and the rising value of the ringgit under the current prime minister.