‘Di rumah kami cerita tentang ikan tilapia, kambing pygmy’

Calon Bersama DUN Bemban Dr Solehin Saleh is anticipating victory in the four-cornered contest but has offered the decision to the voters on November 14. Dr Solehin's sister, Dr Akmal, who is also the Umno Youth Chief, is part of the same Bersama DUN faction. Solehin stressed that they adhere to the principle of keeping politics out of their home and instead focus on family and everyday life whenever they gather.

"We place all 'political attire' outside the house. That is what my father's teachings and my mother's emphasis dictate. We never talk about politics at home."

At home, Solehin mentioned, they prefer to chat about children. Now, he and Akmal discuss tilapia fish and pygmy goats, respectively. Dr Akmal still respects Solehin as his older brother, while their affection for each other remains unchanged despite their differing political views. "Akmal respects me as his elder brother, and I cherish him as his younger sibling. Political differences within the family are not uncommon," he said.

Discussing the campaign in Bemban, Solehin acknowledged Akmal's moderate popularity that helped him when he was first nominated in August. "When I announced my candidacy, media attention was more focused on my status as Akmal's brother," he explained. However, after nearly three months of campaigning, he noted that voters began to know him based on his own efforts and approach.

Solehin did not consider Akmal's popularity as a burden but acknowledged that his sister's charitable work also helped introduce him to the community.

Solehin began his political journey with Bersatu in 2018 before leaving the party following the 'Sheraton Step' due to his disapproval of how politics transformed into an insult to his original struggle. He then joined Amanah before joining Bersama, which he believes offers a more straightforward platform by bringing together various ethnic groups.

Regarding the chances in Bemban, Solehin stated that the seat is open to all parties based on the track record of success from Barisan Nasional (BN), Pakatan Harapan (PH), and Bersatu in the past. The issues raised by the residents include access to healthcare facilities, job opportunities, local development, and the lack of sports complexes for the younger generation.

Solehin is contesting in the four-cornered contest but will hand over the decision to the voters on November 14. He faces opposition from Dr Yadzil Yaakub of Perikatan Nasional (PN), Rabaie Ab Hamid of Bersatu, and Abd Halim Said (independents). In the 2021 PRN Melaka, Dr Yadzil secured the seat with a majority of 328 votes.