State polls: Psywar aside, the people's support on Aug 12 is what matters, says Loke


KUALA LUMPUR: Collaboration between Umno and DAP members at grassroots level in the run-up to the six state elections is going well, says DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke.

"It is a normal thing for psywar (psychological warfare) to take place in the run-up to any election," he told the media after opening the Women in Rail Conference 2023 here on Thursday (Aug 3).

The Seremban MP and Chennah assemblyman, who is also Transport Minister, was answering questions on the level of support from the Umno machinery in Negri Sembilan for DAP candidates, as well as the supposed drop in support for Pakatan Harapan in Penang among voters that has "caused panic".

"The most important thing is for the people to show their support on election day.

"There is no need to elaborate too much. There will be various psychological games in the run-up to the election.

"We will just concentrate on our work. In Negri, the collaboration between Pakatan and Umno at the grassroots level is very warm.

"For example, in Chennah, where I am contesting, the joint campaign is continuing, and this is seen elsewhere as well," he said.

On a survey on Penang voter sentiment, which suggested a 20% drop in support for Pakatan, he said the coalition took note of the findings.

"We are aware of the survey ... we will (use) it as a reference.

"The findings may be right or wrong, but we are not taking anything for granted.

"It will spur us to work harder as we approach the finish line, where we are hoping for a good showing for the unity government.

"After helming Penang for three terms, we have our strengths there, but we are not resting on our laurels. We are not overconfident, and that is a good sign.

"We keep reminding our candidates that no victory is certain."

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