ALOR STAR: Perikatan Nasional (PN) will stand a better chance of wresting the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election on May 11 by fielding a Malay candidate. 

Its election director Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said based on views gathered from grassroots in the constituency, PN stood a chance to pull an upset by fielding a Malay candidate to represent PN's component, Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia (Gerakan).

"Yes the previous candidate was from Gerakan but there are wishes that if we (PN) were to retain Gerakan (to contest), we should field a Malay candidate.

"Then, we will stand a better chance of winning (the by-election)," he told reporters at the Kedah Menteri Besar Aidilfitri open house held in Seri Mentaloon here today.

Sanusi said he would raise the matter at the PN's upcoming candidate selection meeting.

When asked about the PN's chances of winning the seat, which is recognised as PH's stronghold, as well as the possibility of Barisan Nasional/Umno members voting for the PH candidate, Sanusi said he was still optimistic about the party's chances.

"We will have to enter the battle first, then only we will know (the outcome).

"The voting pattern has changed significantly in recent times and I hope PN will win it.

"The people are protesting the rising cost of goods, ringgit depreciation and so on.

"I hope the voters will use the by-election to send a message to the government," he said.

Earlier today, in Kuala Terengganu, Bersatu information chief Datuk Razali Idris said the PN Presidential Council would determine the candidates at an upcoming special meeting.

The Election Commission (EC) has fixed May 11 for the KKB by-election.

The by-election is being held following the death of its three-term assemblywoman Lee Kee Hiong from the DAP.

Lee died on March 21 after a battle with cancer.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/1039638/pn-strategises-win-kkb-election-malay-candidate