THE DAP factor in the unity coalition could hinder the transferability of votes from Barisan Nasional (BN) supporters to Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the state elections tomorrow, an Ilham Centre research found. 

The think tank found it to be among the variables that could influence the outcome of the results for tomorrow’s state polls. 

“PH supporters have no problem transferring their votes in the seats contested by BN candidates (but) the opposite is expected to happen in the seats PH candidates contest.

“Umno members or BN supporters seem reluctant to support PH. 

“Twenty-seven per cent and above stated that it was difficult for them to endorse the PH logo because of the DAP factor,” Ilham Centre said in a statement today. 

PH-BN formed an alliance after the last general election, when no single party or coalition could form the federal government.  

Six states – Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Penang, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu – will go to polls tomorrow. 

The survey was conducted from July 29 to August 8, covering 2,304 respondents from the six states.

The other variable that could determine the outcome of the polls tomorrow is the voter turnout. 

“Normally, the turnout for state elections is lower than general elections.

“This factor will see different patterns or attitudes according to race and the atmosphere of the ongoing campaign. 

“A more intense political situation will catalyse a high turnout. Given the relatively modest current situation, the turnout is expected to be low,” the survey finds. 

The other variable factor found through the research is the support of youth.

It is said youth support could play a key role in determining the winners of the polls. – August 11, 2023.