HULU SELANGOR, May 2 — A victory by Pakatan Harapan candidate Pang Sock Tao in the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election will be a manifestation Harapan and Barisan Nasional's (BN) combined strength, signalling their capability to compete effectively in future by-elections.
Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said a victory would be significant, not only for its impact on the Unity Government's parties' morale, but also because it demonstrates the effectiveness of the cooperation between the 18 parties involved.
He said this by-election is a milestone because it is the first time BN is campaigning for a DAP candidate, but poses no challenges to the coalition.
"That is why a win is important. It will be proof of how unity among the parties can result in a victory, even in a tough contest.
"If we can win here, it will indicate that we can also succeed in other by-elections," he told the press during a visit to the Information Department's media centre for the by-election today.
Ahmad added that Pang's victory would provide a crucial connection between the state and Federal governments, enabling better resolution of people's problems.
In the by-election, she faces off against three challengers, including Khairul Azhari Saut from Perikatan Nasional, Hafizah Zainuddin from Parti Rakyat Malaysia, and Independent candidate Nyau Ke Xin.
The by-election is being held following the death of its state assemblyman Lee Kee Hiong, 58, on March 21 after a battle with cancer.
Early voting is on May 7, and polling is on May 11.
— Bernama
