Johor bahru: Barisan Nasional (BN) is on the verge of finalising its complete list of candidates for the upcoming Johor State Election. BN Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that negotiations concerning seat allocation among the coalition's component parties are in the concluding stages.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid emphasized the imminent finalisation of the candidate list, stating, "We will finalise (the candidate list) within a short period from now. Our seat allocation is almost finalised, and I will negotiate with the component parties of Barisan Nasional while I am here in Johor." His remarks were made during a press conference following the Launching Ceremony of the Johor State BN Election Machinery at the EduCity Sports Complex Indoor Stadium.

Ahmad Zahid also highlighted the significance of the 'Rumah Bangsa' initiative in boosting morale within the coalition's ranks. He noted that many former party leaders have returned and are actively participating in efforts to secure victories for BN candidates. The initiative has received substantial support, particularly from the youth, who make up approximately 82 percent of new applications to the party.

He further elaborated that the combination of experienced leaders and enthusiastic young supporters could draw in votes from the 18-year-old voter group (Undi18) and other young demographics, potentially ensuring a decisive victory for BN in Johor.

In preparation for the election, Johor BN has declared its intention to contest all 56 State Legislative Assembly (DUN) seats. During the 2022 Johor State Election, UMNO-Barisan Nasional secured 40 out of 56 seats, while Pakatan Harapan won 12 seats, Perikatan Nasional claimed three, and MUDA secured one.