Selangor, recognized as the nation’s economic powerhouse, boasting a significant contribution of 25.5% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the previous year, faces a potential setback if it is not retained under the governance of a unity government following the upcoming state elections on August 12. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi underscored Selangor’s pivotal role in transforming the lives of many Malaysians through the creation of high-paying employment opportunities, largely fueled by substantial foreign investment.
“The progress that Selangor has achieved, catalyzing improved livelihoods, would be squandered if it is not upheld as a bastion of the Malaysia Madani concept within the ambit of a unity government,” remarked Zahid during a speech at a thanksgiving prayer session, commemorating the National Month.
In his capacity as Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman, Zahid commended the collaborative strength exhibited by the unified parties within the unity government of Selangor. He highlighted the remarkable openness displayed by Pakatan Harapan (PH) leadership in extending the opportunity for BN to contest an increased number of seats in the state election.
Elaborating on this collaboration, Zahid stated, “Prior to the dissolution of the state assembly, BN held only five seats. However, owing to PH’s magnanimity, we are now vying for 12 seats, which exemplifies the genuineness of our camaraderie.”
Before the state assembly was dissolved, the political landscape encompassed PH with 40 seats (PKR-19, DAP-15, Amanah-six), BN with five seats, Bersatu with four seats, Parti Bangsa Malaysia (PBM) with two seats, and PAS, Pejuang, and Warisan each holding a single seat. An Independent assemblyman occupied the remaining seat.
The final state seat of Batang Kali was deemed vacant following the prolonged absence of its assemblyman from state assembly proceedings for over six months. The impending state elections serve as a critical juncture for Selangor’s future trajectory, intertwining political stewardship and economic prosperity.