JOHOR BARU: The Sept 28 Mahkota by-election presents a unique opportunity to gauge the strength and unity of the ruling coalition.
It's notable that Wanita Umno, despite not having a candidate picked from its own ranks, is throwing its support behind the Barisan Nasional (BN) campaign.
This demonstrates an important lesson in political maturity, coalition unity and the party's commitment to its principles.
Wanita Umno chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad had submitted three names to the leadership for consideration to represent BN in Mahkota.
Noraini had said it was important for a woman to continue the legacy of the late Datuk Sharifah Azizah Syed Zain, a former exco member of Wanita Umno.
Sharifah Azizah, who died on Aug 2, won the seat in the Johor state election in 2022.
However, Kluang Umno Youth chief Syed Hussien Syed Abdullah was announced as the BN candidate.
Wanita Umno deputy chief Datuk Seri Norliza Abdul Rahim said Wanita had demonstrated political maturity and its willingness to put the party's interests above the wing's ambitions in accepting this decision.
"Even if the candidate is not from Wanita, we will work for the BN candidate.
"Wanita has made a sacrifice for the sake of the party, but this does not mean Wanita candidates can be overlooked in future elections."
The decision to field a BN candidate under the banner of the unity government was reached with broad consensus among the coalition parties.
Despite initial tension, particularly from Amanah, which had shown an interest in fielding a candidate, the eventual decision to back a BN candidate speaks volumes about the strength of the coalition's internal dynamics.
The Wanita machinery is already engaged in groundwork in Mahkota, meeting voters and ensuring that the party's message resonates with them.
The absence of a Wanita candidate could be seen as a setback, but it's actually a test of Wanita's political maturity.
Wanita Umno plays a key role in the party's grassroots efforts, often acting as the bridge between the party and the people.
Norliza dismissed allegations that Wanita may sabotage the campaign, calling them "rubbish and unfounded".
She is confident that, with the level of trust and cooperation nurtured in the unity government, no such thing will occur.
Mahkota will serve as a litmus test for the coalition's cohesion.
Should any internal conflict arise, it will not only weaken BN's chances in Mahkota, but also set a dangerous precedent for future cooperation.