JOHOR BARU: Former Johor state assembly speaker Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi has confirmed that he will not be contesting in the upcoming election.
In a statement, the Rengit incumbent said he made the decision a year ago and had informed the Umno leadership.
"I informed the Umno president (Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi) and Johor Umno of my intention two weeks ago.
"Age is the main factor. I am now 69 years old. In five years, I will be 74.
"In my view, it would not be appropriate at this age to contest a state seat again," he said in a Facebook statement on Wednesday (June 17).
Puad said caretaker Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi should be given the opportunity to lead the younger generation in the election and the state government.
"In fact, only those aged 50 and below should be contesting state seats.
"However, I have provided suggestions on the qualities that should be considered in a successor.
"The individual must be educated, possess good character, be committed to the struggle, and understand the direction of the nation," he said, adding that he hoped Onn Hafiz would accept and implement the suggestions.
Puad also thanked his constituents for their support over the years.
"My appreciation also goes to the civil servants, especially the village heads, as well as the Chinese community, for their cooperation.
"I also humbly extend my deepest gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, for consenting to my appointment as speaker.
"My heartfelt thanks also go to Johor Regent Tunku Ismail for his advice and guidance in ensuring that the state assembly proceedings were conducted in an orderly and smooth manner," he said.
The Star had previously reported that several Barisan Nasional leaders, including Puad, would be dropped to make way for new faces in the upcoming state polls.
Other leaders tipped to be dropped include former mentri besar Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad (Benut).
Nominations for the Johor election will be on June 27, with early voting on July 7 and polling day on July 11.
