Johor bahru: UMNO members have been urged to place loyalty to the party's struggle, principles, and the public above personal disappointment following the candidate selection process for the 16th Johor state election. UMNO Information chief Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said emphasized the need for maturity and discipline within the party, urging all factions to accept decisions made and move forward collectively despite any dissatisfaction with candidate nominations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azalina stated that while differences of opinion and criticisms are natural, discipline demands that once decisions are reached through party channels, all members should unite as a single team. She highlighted the importance of performance under pressure, stating, "People are watching, not just what we promise, but how we perform under pressure."

Addressing the disappointment among members regarding the candidate selection, Azalina acknowledged that every major party faces such situations. However, she noted that the true measure of a party fighter is revealed when they remain steadfast, even when not selected as a candidate.

Azalina also commended Johor UMNO Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and his leadership team for handling the challenging selection process with calmness, discipline, and political courage. She reassured members that UMNO has a continuous pipeline of leaders, including grassroots figures, young talent, and fresh faces ready for opportunities to serve.

In related developments, UMNO Supreme Council member Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi announced his immediate resignation from the party to express his views freely. Meanwhile, UMNO secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki claimed Mohd Puad's resignation was due to dissatisfaction over his son not being selected as a candidate for the Rengit state seat in the Johor polls.

The Election Commission has scheduled June 27 for nominations in the state election, with polling day set for July 11.