Duyong rep Noor Helmy’s popularity among all ‘a big hurdle to DAP’
A political analyst says that attacks on the assemblyman, who is well-liked even outside Duyong, could hamper DAP in other seats too.
DAP faces significant challenges in regaining the Duyong state seat in Melaka, according to analyst Lau Zhe Wei from the International Islamic University Malaysia. First-term assemblyman Noor Helmy Abdul Halem, Umno representative, has gained considerable popularity across all communities in Duyong, bolstered by his strong presence on social media. Despite DAP's attempts to promote their candidate, attacking Noor Helmy, particularly in unreasonable matters, could harm the party's prospects in other seats as well.
Noor Helmy's appeal extends beyond Duyong, as his popularity reaches far and wide, potentially casting a negative light on DAP's image throughout Melaka. The party recently announced its contestation in eight state elections, including Duyong, which they aim to reclaim from Barisan Nasional. Traditionally a seat held by MCA, Duyong was won by DAP in 2013 and retained in 2018; however, Noor Helmy secured his seat with a narrow margin of 200 votes in the 2021 election, defeating his DAP predecessor Damian Yeo.
In the upcoming 2021 election, DAP hopes to secure victory by facing off against BN, Perikatan Nasional, and Pakatan Harapan, a move that could split Malay votes. However, the Malay-Muslim unity narrative, prominent in Johor and Negeri Sembilan polls, is predicted to persist in Melaka. As Duyong comprises approximately 60% Malay voters, Umno stands to gain the most from the region's political landscape.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
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