MUDA’S move to contest in the Johor polls must not be underestimated and must be viewed as a testing ground in determining the wishes of young voters, said Annuar Musa.

The Ketereh Umno chief said as a democratic country, all legally registered entities should be given an opportunity to contest to gauge their capabilities.

Umno will provide more chances for young candidates to work with leaders with extensive experience in politics, he added, citing the party’s success in the previous state elections.

“Youth will be given as many opportunities as possible. Umno is a party that always provides such opportunities. I, myself, became a candidate when I was 28. We should welcome the participation (of Muda).”

He said without an opportunity to contest and test its capability as a registered political party, Muda can only make “noise”.

“We should not underestimate anyone (who is contesting), including independent candidates.”

Annuar was commenting on Muda’s move to contest in the upcoming Johor polls, marking its debut in state elections.

Muda president Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman earlier confirmed that his party will contest in the polls.

Johor recorded a 28% increase in its electoral roll, following the automatic registration of Undi18 voters – thus posing a new challenge to contesting parties.

Annuar said Barisan Nasional and Umno must consider crucial each and every election, including the one in Johor, as it is not wise to be overconfident when people have yet to cast their ballots. – Bernama, January 29, 2022.