Independent candidate shakes up Pelangai by-election, puts BN and PN on edge

October 7, 2023

Independent candidate shakes up Pelangai by-election, puts BN and PN on edge

SHAH ALAM – Despite Perikatan Nasional (PN)’s confidence and Barisan Nasional (BN)’s advantage in shifting votes from PH, Pelangai’s upcoming election remains uncertain with the emergence of independent candidate Haslihelmy DM Zulhasli, as the fate of 16,456 voters hangs in the balance.

Despite PN’s confidence, there seems to be a shift of support for BN,notably among Chinese, Indian, and nearly 600 Indigenous voters.

Former Pahang Menteri Besar Tan Seri Adnan Yaakob’s campaign presence has further bolstered BN’s confidence in retaining their traditional seat.

However, despite the evident fierce competition between the BN and PN coalitions, the appearance of Independent candidate Haslihelmy DM Zulhasli should not be underestimated, despite the absence of any campaign flags or symbols throughout the Pelangai by-election campaign.

Haslihelmy claims to have faced attacks from both BN and PH, seemingly indicating that both coalitions feel challenged by his candidacy.

“I’m neither a giant nor a deer; I’m just an ordinary human who wants to provide choices to the voters and people of Pelangai.

“Is my early appearance a sign that I might win, prompting these major parties to attack, including digging up my past?” he said.

Haslihelmy also launched a manifesto outlining six core priorities for the people of Pelangai less than 48 hours before campaigning ends.
For now, no candidate appears to have a clear path to victory, as 73 per cent of Malay voters, especially young voters and Felda residents, remain unpredictable.