Tapah: Perak BN chairman Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad has called upon all BN component parties, Friends of BN, and Pakatan Harapan (PH) to intensify their efforts to secure a victory for BN in the upcoming Ayer Kuning state by-election. He emphasized the importance of focusing on respective areas to effectively gain voter support.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saarani shared that he held a meeting with party leaders from Friends of BN, who are known for their strong influence among members and supporters, alongside leaders from MCA and MIC. Saarani expressed confidence in BN’s potential to win by a significant margin if all parties can secure their supporters’ backing. Tomorrow, a meeting with PH component party leaders is scheduled to further solidify support.

Saarani highlighted that the joint efforts of BN and PH under the Unity Government have been progressing smoothly, showcasing strong cooperation among the leadership. Additionally, MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan assured that BN component parties would adhere to any decision made by the top leadership to retain the seat.

MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon urged BN members to remain vigilant against the strategies of political opponents, cautioning against underestimating the challenges posed by the Ayer Kuning by-election.

The Election Commission (EC) is set to hold a special meeting this Friday regarding the by-election for the Ayer Kuning state seat in Perak, following the casual vacancy due to the passing of its incumbent, Ishsam Shahruddin, on February 22. Ishsam, 59, succumbed to a heart attack after participating in the Four-Cornered Football Championship at the City Stadium in George Town, Penang.

In the 15th General Election (GE15) in November 2022, Ishsam, who also served as the Tapah UMNO Division chief, secured the Ayer Kuning seat with a majority of 2,213 votes in a five-cornered contest.