Jahara, who has held the seat for 24 years, said she had informed state Umno chief Zainal Abidin Osman of her decision.
The 67-year-old’s move to retire is nothing new, as she had often told the state assembly that this would be her last term as a politician, vowing to focus on her grandchildren.
But today’s announcement appears to be official as she has written to her party heads.
“I am ready to go because I think we should give the opportunity to other deserving people, especially those who are youthful and energetic.
“I will still be in the background, playing an advisory role to the future candidate,” Jahara told reporters at the Cabinet Away Day 2.0 function at Permatang Binjai, Tasek Gelugor here today.
Jahara said she was thankful to Umno and Barisan Nasional who had given her many opportunities to develop Telok Ayer Tawar to what it is today.
She said her constituency has witnessed a change in the past eight to nine years, thanks to efforts by the BN federal government.
“The most meaningful moment for me was when I helped the local entrepreneurs build a 200-stall business space here, helping smallholders to trade their wares legally,” she said.
She added that she was well aware of rumours that PPBM was looking to contest the Teluk Ayer Tawar seat in the coming polls.
She said her electorate knew the DAP-led Penang government had “promised the moon and the stars” but failed to deliver.
“I believe PPBM is going to do the same. ‘Bulan dan bintang’ promises to get people’s votes.
“But voters are smart and mature now, they know which candidate will willingly serve them.”