But BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has insisted that their cooperation is an “understanding” and not a pact.
“This understanding is very important to us because we previously won only 14 seats under BN.
“With this tactical approach, Negeri Sembilan will once again be governed by BN. The blue wave has arrived in Negeri Sembilan,” he said, as reported by Malaysia’s Berita Harian, referring to the coalition’s official colour that is also used in its logo.
SEATS TO WATCH OUT FOR
Among the closely watched seats in the election include Linggi, Chennah as well as Rantau.
Caretaker Chief Minister Aminuddin Harun – who is from Anwar’s Parti Keadlian Rakyat – said on Saturday that his bid to capture Linggi from BN will be an uphill battle.
The constituency has not elected a non-United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) assemblyman since it was first contested in 1959, local media reported. UMNO is a BN lynchpin party.
“At the moment, I still see my chances as 50-50. I am not 100 per cent confident. We still have time during the campaign, but for now, I would say the odds are still evenly balanced,” he was quoted as saying by Malay Mail.
The move sees Aminuddin vacate his long-held Sikamat seat in favour of Linggi.
“I am not running away. I am leaving Sikamat because, in my view, Pakatan Harapan needs to win new seats to ensure we can form a stable government,” he said.
Meanwhile, Transport Minister Anthony Loke – who is from PH’s Democratic Action Party – is set to defend Chennah in a straight fight against BN’s Siow Kong Choon.
“Chennah has always been a 50-50 seat because no single ethnic group forms the majority. To win, we need support across all communities.
“The difference this time is that we are contesting as the incumbent government, having served for two terms and delivered development to the area. I hope to retain the support of Chinese, Malay and Orang Asli voters,” he was quoted as saying by Malay Mail.