PETALING JAYA: A Johor PKR leader has welcomed the prospects of multi-cornered clashes in the upcoming state election, saying this is good for democracy and would ultimately benefit Malaysians.
With Barisan Nasional, Pakatan Harapan, Perikatan Nasional and several other parties set to clash in the Johor polls, state PKR vice-chief Jimmy Puah said such multi-cornered clashes may soon be the norm in Malaysia.
Puah said this would give voters more options and the chance to compare several parties, instead of being forced to choose between only two.
“This is a good development because democracy offers the people more options. However, with more options, political parties can no longer depend on their logos, slogans, or traditional support to win the trust of voters.
“Besides party ideologies, administrative records and policy directions, I believe that a factor that would determine victory in this state election is the quality of the candidates,” he said in a statement.
The Tebrau MP said the ideal candidate should have a good educational background, professionalism, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of public policies and local issues.
He said the candidates should also be known by the constituents and have established a rapport with the local grassroots.
“This is why Johor PKR cannot be lackadaisical in choosing its candidates. We must go through a stringent selection process to ensure we field candidates who meet the people’s aspirations in this new political era.
“What we’re looking for isn’t merely candidates who know how to contest in an election, but who can truly bear the responsibility and serve the people,” he said.
The Johor assembly was dissolved on Monday, paving the way for the 16th state election to be held within 60 days.
