Kuala lumpur: The young DAP candidate for the Bukit Permai seat, Mohamad Shafwan Ani, is seen as the party's best bet to create history as DAP makes its debut in the constituency in the 16th Johor state election. Johor DAP chairman Teo Nie Ching said the selection of the 33-year-old Mohamad Shafwan was based on his experience and nine-year track record serving in the Kulai parliamentary constituency, as well as his active involvement with the local community.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo Nie Ching emphasized that Mohamad Shafwan is the most suitable candidate due to his extensive service in the area and his long-term membership with DAP. During his nine-year tenure, he has encountered numerous challenges and gained valuable experience while working under the Kulai Member of Parliament's office. His familiarity with the voters and various local associations is seen as a significant advantage.
Mohamad Shafwan, representing Pakatan Harapan (PH), will face incumbent Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor of Barisan Nasional (BN), M. Lina Manoh of Perikatan Nasional (PN), and Muhammad Aidil Riduan Mohd Yusof of Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama). Teo, who also serves as Deputy Communications Minister, urged voters residing outside the constituency to return home to vote on July 11 to shape the future of Bukit Permai.
Discussing the campaign strategy, Teo mentioned that despite her responsibilities to mobilize the PH campaign across Johor as the state DAP chairman, the electoral machinery in the Kulai parliamentary constituency boasts considerable strength due to the collaborative efforts between DAP and PKR. She expressed confidence in the team's ability to secure favorable outcomes for all PH candidates.
Teo highlighted the significance of the Johor state election beyond the state level, noting its importance in allowing the federal government to continue its reform agenda and ensure political stability. She pointed out that various reforms have been initiated under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, including amendments concerning citizenship rights for children born overseas to Malaysian mothers and enhancements in worker protection.
Additionally, she urged all supporters to engage in mature politics during the campaign, avoiding sensitive issues related to race, religion, and royalty, and maintaining a respectful and courteous demeanor. Meanwhile, Mohamad Shafwan outlined his priority of ensuring balanced development in housing and public amenities if elected, aiming to address issues of congestion and insufficient facilities.
The Election Commission (EC) has scheduled polling day for July 11, with early voting on July 7.