Barisan Nasional candidates Mohd Naim Kurniawan Moktar (second left) and Mohd Ismail Ayob, better known as Miha (right), posing with supporters during a meet-the-people programme in Kinabatangan.
KINABATANGAN: Once political rivals, leaders who previously stood on opposing sides are now closing ranks under Barisan Nasional, framing unity as the central message ahead of the Lamag state by-election.
Barisan’s Lamag candidate Mohd Ismail Ayob, popularly known as Miha, said past political differences have been set aside to allow all sides to work together towards a shared goal - development for Lamag and Kinabatangan.
“Previously, we may have differed in political views, but today we are aligned and united. What matters now is that we share the same objective - to develop Lamag and Kinabatangan,” he said at a community gathering.
Miha described the current cooperation as a turning point, saying former competitors are now working side by side in the interest of stability and progress. He said the decision to move forward together reflects political maturity and a willingness to prioritise the needs of the people over old rivalries.
“This is a moment where unity matters more than past contests. What is important is moving forward together,” he added.
Also speaking at the event was Mohd Naim Kurniawan Moktar, Barisan’s candidate of choice for the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat, who acknowledged that Miha’s entry into Barisan had initially surprised some observers.
He said the development should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a point of contention.
“Some people were surprised by the party and Miha’s decision, but we are now in the same house. Once you are in the same house, you protect it and make it work,” Naim said.
Naim added that political unity should not be undermined by internal divisions, stressing that prolonged political fragmentation would only weaken the constituency.
“Different backgrounds do not mean different goals. Both sides want progress for Lamag. The time for divisive politics should end,” he said, urging supporters to stand firmly behind the BN candidate to ensure effective leadership on the ground.
The gathering was held at Miha’s residence in Kinabatangan as part of a meet-the-people programme aimed at strengthening grassroots support.
The Lamag by-election was triggered following the death of incumbent assemblyman Bung Moktar Radin on Dec 5. Nomination day has been set for Jan 10, early voting on Jan 20, and polling day on Jan 24.
