JOHOR BARU: As the Johor state election campaign enters its final stretch, candidates going for ceramah, walkabouts and house visits are still finding time to keep up with the World Cup – even if it means relying on updates or watching highlights between campaign stops.
For many of them, football offers a welcome distraction from the gruelling demands on the campaign trail and a chance to unwind with supporters and party workers.
Barisan Nasional’s Larkin candidate Mohd Hairi Mad Shah said he has been trying to follow the tournament despite visiting Umno divisions and branches across Johor.
The incumbent Larkin assemblyman and outgoing state youth, sports, entrepreneur development and cooperatives committee chairman said he has remained a loyal England supporter for years, and hopes the Three Lions can finally end their six-decade wait for a second World Cup title.
“England has a balanced squad with a good mix of experienced and young players such as Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka. They have shown plenty of potential, especially after reaching the quarter-finals by beating one of the host nations, Mexico,” he said earlier this week.
Mohd Hairi admitted that keeping up with the tournament has become increasingly difficult.
“With the election nearing, it is becoming difficult for me to watch not only England’s matches but also other games. I usually catch the highlights or check the score updates because some matches were played in the early hours of the morning while others kick off in the afternoon,” he said.
His opponent in Larkin, Pakatan Harapan’s Suhaizan Kaiat, said Brazil has been his favourite team since childhood.
Suhaizan said Brazil’s elimination by Norway was a bitter disappointment, and he is now hoping defending champions Argentina can successfully retain the title they won in 2022.
“With the World Cup taking place at the same time as the Johor state election, it is difficult for me to watch the matches because of the time difference between Malaysia and North America.
“Although some matches kick off at 7am or 8am, I have been unable to watch them because of my packed campaign schedule. Fortunately, my campaign team keeps me updated with the results,” he said.
Meanwhile, Perikatan Nasional’s Panti candidate Alias Rasman said he has remained a devoted France supporter since Les Bleus lifted their first World Cup trophy in 1998.
He said his admiration for France began during his years as an Arsenal fan, when the English club was managed by Arsene Wenger and boasted several French stars, including Thierry Henry.
“I will always support France. I still remember the 2006 World Cup final when Zinedine Zidane was sent off for headbutting an Italian player before France eventually lost. They made up for it by winning the World Cup again in 2018,” he said, adding that Kylian Mbappe is now his favourite French player.
Despite the hectic pace of campaigning, Alias said the World Cup has helped strengthen camaraderie among Bersatu Armada members, with football providing a common talking point that transcends politics.
