KLUANG: Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi described Barisan Nasional's (BN) resounding win in the Mahkota by-election as a "humbling mandate" from the people, reaffirming their trust in its leadership.
"This overwhelming majority is a reflection of the people's confidence in BN.
"It is an amanah (trust) that Syed Hussien Syed Abdullah must carry with full responsibility.
"There are no shortcuts when it comes to serving the people," said Onn Hafiz after the official Mahkota by-election results were announced by the election commission returning officers at the Dewan Tunku Ibrahim Ismail, at 9.01pm today.
"Whoever is chosen by the people must serve them sincerely. Syed Hussein has been given this trust, and he must rise to the occasion," he said.
As a Muslim, a leader is not only answerable to the people, but also to Allah for the trust placed in him, he said.
Onn Hafiz said BN has positioned itself as the underdog in Mahkota, but attributed the victory to the people's strong belief in BN, who had proven that they are here to serve the people.
"We have always positioned ourselves as the underdog.
"This win is not just a triumph for Syed Hussein, but for all of us in BN who believe in working hard for the rakyat," he said.
Onn Hafiz pledged to strengthen cooperation with the federal government to ensure that the state receives the support it needs for development and progress.
"BN has proven its worth, and we will continue to do our best, working harder to align with federal initiatives for Johor's benefit," he said.
Syed Hussein's victory is seen as a crucial indicator of BN's support in the state as it continues to bolster its presence.
He secured 27,995 votes, with a 20,648 majority to win the Mahkota by-election.
Perikatan Nasional's Mohamad Haizan Jaafar, garnered 7,347 votes.