CM post not ‘inducement’ to lead BN to victory, says Ab Rauf

BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi recently designated Ab Rauf Yusoh as the potential successor as chief minister if the coalition prevails in the upcoming Melaka state election, scheduled for November 14. Speaking to FMT, Melaka BN chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh clarified that his primary objective in the election is not to secure another term as chief minister, but to achieve a robust mandate from the voters for the coalition.

Ab Rauf emphasized that his focus is on securing political continuity and working hard to win the election. He dismissed the idea that his reappointment is an incentive for remaining in politics, stressing that it is crucial to prioritize victory. The Malay-majority Tanjung Bidara constituency, where Ab Rauf currently serves as an MP, is regarded as a stronghold for Umno.

However, in the last state election, Ab Rauf managed to retain the seat with a narrow margin of 364 votes, having secured 3,559 votes in a three-way race. This time, Ab Rauf will face off in a direct contest against Pakatan Harapan's Yunazri Mustamiri. Ab Rauf cautioned against overconfidence, asserting that the party's capabilities and his own experience are unmatched by others.

In the past, Ab Rauf won the seat with a slim majority of 364 votes, garnering 3,559 votes in a three-way contest, with Bersatu's Mas Ermieyati Samsudin coming in second with 3,195 votes. This time, Ab Rauf will face off against Pakatan Harapan's Yunazri Mustamiri in a head-to-head battle. Ab Rauf emphasized that the local community, not political heavyweight names, is the key to understanding and meeting the needs of constituents.

Born into a rubber tapper and a housewife in Tanjung Bidara, Ab Rauf has a deep understanding of the community's needs and the changes necessary for their development. He believes his experience will enable him to bring about greater progress, particularly for the youth.