KUALA LUMPUR: Perikatan Nasional will try to broaden its appeal and reach within other communities with targeted strategies as well as systematic efforts following its defeat in the recent Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election.
PN Federal Territories secretary Dr Mahathir Mohd Rais said the recently concluded by-election was a pivotal learning point for the coalition.
"It underscores the importance of refining our focus to ensure that we not only consolidate support in our strongholds but also expand our influence across Malaysia's competitive political landscape.
"PN aims to build a more inclusive and robust political presence through dedicated effort and strategic outreach."
Mahathir said a significant concern emerging from the by-election was the low turnout among Malay voters.
This was an urgent issue that PN needed to address, he said, as it indicated a necessity for increased engagement and mobilisation efforts within PN's core demographic.
"We also observed a commendable level of commitment from Chinese voters — a trend we are eager to encourage across all communities.
"PN is committed to enhancing our outreach efforts not only within the Chinese community but also the Indian community, where we have noticed a promising increase in support."
In analysing DAP's success in maintaining its stronghold, Mahathir said its performance has not escalated as anticipated, particularly in a setting where it receives considerable support from political infrastructures.
"DAP's vote tally has stagnated around 14,000, with their majority margin decreasing significantly — from 7,134 in the 2013 General Election to 3,869 in the latest by-election.
"Several factors, such as the support from the state government coalition of Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional, announcements of allocations and grants, and backing from entities like Umno and MIC, should have ideally positioned DAP to significantly increase their vote tally.
"Given these circumstances, DAP's victory in its stronghold is less impressive, especially considering the stagnant vote tally and the reduced majority," he said.
On Saturday, Pakatan Harapan retained its state seat of Kuala Kubu Baharu with its candidate, Pang Sock Tao, polling 14,000 votes, defeating PN's Khairul Azhari Saut who garnered 10,131 votes.
Parti Rakyat Malaysia's Hafizah Zainuddin secured 152 votes and independent candidate Nyau Ke Xin secured 188.