The divisional youth leader, Azhar Zainal Abidin, said Umno had an “excellent record” in Mersing, a parliamentary seat, and Endau, a Johor state assembly seat.

Public support for Umno and Barisan Nasional remained strong in the two seats despite the party’s loss of the seats in 2018, he said. “We are confident that voters in Mersing and Endau know better between those who truly serve them and those who only make promises during election season,” said Azhar in response to PKR’s plans.

Zaliha had announced on Aug 29 that Johor PKR had plans to contest the Muar, Pagoh and Mersing parliamentary seats, and the state seats of Maharani (Muar), Endau (Mersing), Bukit Kepong (Pagoh) and Puteri Wangsa (Tebrau).

Azhar’s statement comes two days after Johor Umno Youth slammed PKR and Amanah leaders in the state, accusing them of being hasty and overeager in laying claims to certain seats ahead of upcoming elections.

Its chief Noor Azleen Ambros said Umno Youth was puzzled by the restlessness and hastiness displayed by PKR and Amanah leaders in Johor over the matter.

Johor Amanah had previously said it wanted to vie for 12 to 20 state seats in the next Johor state elections, due to an apparent lack of negotiations between Pakatan Harapan and BN in the southern state.