MELAKA: Newly-minted Melaka PKR chairman Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin has urged party leaders and grassroots to intensify preparations ahead of a possible state election within the next year.
Speaking at the launch of a new PKR branch in Tangga Batu, Klebang here, he said early groundwork was crucial to respond to shifting political dynamics and mounting opposition narratives.
"The last Melaka state election was held in late 2021.
"We may have a year to prepare and it's essential that our party machinery at every level is ready,” he said on Saturday (Aug 2).
Shamsul Iskandar, who also serves as senior political secretary to the Prime Minister, called on members to remain vigilant against political attacks, particularly those directed at Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
"Many criticisms lack context and ignore the government’s efforts in driving economic reform, attracting investment, improving public welfare and strengthening Malaysia’s international standing,” he said.
He stressed that the success of the unity government, especially collaboration between Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan, would be key in determining seat distribution and campaign strategy.
"PKR will contest based on the seat allocations agreed upon with coalition partners” he said.
Referring to the recent PKR party elections, Shamsul Iskandar acknowledged internal challenges and called on members who were defeated to treat setbacks as motivation.
“Defeats happen but we rebuild, re-engage and re-strategise.
"That’s the nature of politics,” he said.
He also urged the party's divisional and branch committees to step up community outreach and use social media wisely to counter misinformation.
“This is the time to plan, to act and to connect with the people in a meaningful way,” he added.
