BARISAN Nasional (BN) will explain to Pulai and Simpang Jeram voters why it upheld the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s decree to join the unity government, said Umno Supreme Council member Ahmad Maslan.

He said Umno will also explain that DAP agreed to accept four points in the Federal Constitution before BN joined the unity government after the 2022 general election.

Ahmad said voters’ lack of understanding on these matters has contributed to BN’s defeat in three states and allowed Perikatan Nasional (PN) to make inroads in Selangor and Negri Sembilan in the August 12 state polls.

“DAP has acknowledged the status of Islam, the position of Malay rulers, the position of Bahasa Melayu and the special rights of Malays (in the constitution),” he told reporters after the “Fly the Jalur Gemilang” programme at the Pontian Umno office today.

Ahmad, who is Johor Umno deputy chairman, said the party’s 26 Johor divisions will work hard to help Amanah in the Pulai and Simpang Jeram by-elections.

Ahmad said he will lead the Pulai Umno machinery and Buloh Kasap assemblyman Zahari Sarip will head the campaign in Simpang Jeram.

Former Johor assembly speaker Suhaizan Kaiat and Nazri Abdul Rahman from Amanah were today named Pakatan Harapan candidates for the Pulai and Simpang Jeram by-elections, respectively.

The Election Commission fixed nominations for August 26, early voting on September 5 and polling on September 9 for the by-elections.

The local polls were called following the death of the incumbent for the two seats, Salahuddin Ayub, on July 23. – Bernama, August 19, 2023.