Azmin: Johor, Negri setbacks won't affect Bersatu in Melaka polls

MELAKA: Bersatu's failure to win seats in the Johor and Negri Sembilan elections does not necessarily reflect voter support for the party in Melaka.

Its secretary-general, Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, said the party acknowledged the risks but expected to reduce them through strategic planning and trained machinery.

He said the party's decision to contest seven seats was made after weighing various factors through strategic consideration and careful study.

"After giving it very careful and very thorough consideration, we feel the number that is significant and strategic enough for Bersatu this time is seven seats with the potential for us to win.

"Although we know that in any election there are risks, we have strategic planning and organised and trained machinery.

"So we are confident it can boost the support of the people of Melaka for Bersatu," he said in an interview here.

Bersatu is fielding seven candidates, whereas Wawasan is contesting two seats in Kesidang and Bemban under the PN logo.

Bersatu and Wawasan will also face off in Bemban, which will see a four-cornered fight that includes Parti Bersama Malaysia and an independent.

Azmin said Bersatu was taking a different approach in this election by prioritising wisdom and suitable political strategy.

He said this included fielding candidates in state seats also contested by Pakatan Harapan, even though both sides were seen to have an understanding.

"It may be awkward because we have never been through a situation like this, but as I mentioned earlier, this is the wisdom of the political parties taking part in the Melaka election.

"Although there is cooperation, if they feel there is a winning factor or that victory favours them, then they will field a candidate there.

"But for Bersatu, based on other considerations, for example the candidate is well liked, accepted by voters, has an excellent record and is young, so we feel victory may favour Bersatu," he said.