PETALING JAYA: The high-stakes nature of the Johor state election has led major political coalitions to prioritise experienced and well-known candidates over fresh faces, political analysts say.
Dr Azmi Hassan, senior fellow at the Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research, said established outfits such as Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional are focusing on recognisable figures to reassure voters amid a closely contested race for control of the state government.
“The stakes are who will establish the state government. So voters need experienced candidates, well-known candidates.”
He noted that even within Pakatan Harapan, the selection of familiar figures reflects the importance of perceived leadership strength, citing candidates seen as potential mentri besar material.
Azmi said it was therefore not surprising that major coalitions are relying on seasoned politicians rather than introducing large numbers of new faces.
Only four of the six independent candidates contesting the upcoming state election are first-time candidates, down from 14 in the 2022 state election.
“The independent candidates realise that in this Johor state election, it is between Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional.”
He contrasted the current contest with previous elections such as in Sabah, where the appeal of individual candidates plays a larger role.
Azmi said the dominance of experienced candidates, while strategic, may come at the expense of political renewal.
Prof Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said parties are leaning towards experienced candidates who are seen as lower-risk in a closely contested environment.
“It suggests parties are prioritising winnability over experimentation.
“In a tight race, experienced candidates are seen as safer choices because they have stronger name recognition, established grassroots networks and campaign experience.”
Sunway University political scientist Prof Wong Chin Huat said independents rarely succeed in Peninsular Malaysia due to party dominance.
Wong said the emergence of new party Bersama has further crowded the field, making it riskier for independents who would not want to risk losing their deposits.
