MUAR: Umno should concentrate on Johor and Selangor if it wants to revive its former strength, similar to its performance in the 11th general election.

Its vice-president, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, said that from the first GE to GE11, these two states were key contributors to the party's success, helping it achieve a two-thirds majority.

"Johor and Selangor were crucial to Umno's strength back then, so it's logical to focus on regaining that power.

"In Johor, I believe Umno can win 40 out of 56 state assembly seats, which shows its potential there.

"However, we have not seen similar results in Parliament. In GE15, we won nine parliamentary seats and eight in GE14. This needs to change starting now, including in the Pagoh parliamentary seat," he said when officiating the Pagoh Umno Division meeting at the Seri Pekembar Complex today.

Present at the event was Pagoh Umno Division head, Datuk Ismail Mohamed.

In GE15 two years ago, Umno only secured 26 parliamentary seats and 120 state assembly seats, marking its worst electoral performance.

Johari said developing young leaders within the party for future elections is also significant for the party.

"We need to cultivate more local leaders. We have many promising leaders compared to other parties, which often have to move candidates around for elections.

"I was once advised to move to a safer area but refused. I said it's okay if I lose because I want to help correct our mistakes.

"Leaders who seek only safe seats are not suitable to lead," he added.

Johari said Umno must start revising its strategy now, regardless of immediate success, to ensure the party's future.

"Even if our strategy doesn't work out immediately, a strong foundation will help us build for the next GE.

"Every effort must be sincere. Even if results are not immediate, sincere commitment will eventually lead to success," he said.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/1082496/umno-should-focus-johor-and-selangor-revival-says-jo-ghani