JASIN – Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhammad Akmal Saleh is not targeting a landslide victory in the 16th Melaka state election, saying securing voters' trust after nearly five years of service is more important as he seeks to defend the Merlimau seat.
The incumbent said his priority was to demonstrate that he had fulfilled the responsibilities entrusted to him since being elected in 2021, rather than focusing on the size of his winning majority.
“To be honest, I am not expecting a big victory. I only want the people's trust after serving them for four years and 11 months.
“Whether I win with a big majority or not is not important, as long as that trust is given to me. What matters most is that the responsibility entrusted to me must be carried out to the best of my ability,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after the nomination process for the Merlimau state constituency at Merlimau Politenik’s Platinum Hall earlier today.
Akmal acknowledged that he had made mistakes and had shortcomings during his tenure, but said these would not discourage him from continuing to seek public support.
He added that voters were capable of assessing the criticisms, allegations and propaganda directed at him during the campaign period against his record of service.
“I admit that I have made many mistakes and have shortcomings compared with the opposing parties, but that will not stop me from continuing my efforts.
“My track record of service is what I am offering. If they feel it is not good enough, I honestly say, do not vote for me. However, if they feel my service has been good and satisfactory, I ask for their trust once again,” he said.
In a separate response, Akmal said he had no issue facing criticism, adding that voters should evaluate what each candidate had delivered and was offering to the constituency.
During the campaign period, Akmal called on all political parties to conduct their campaigns responsibly and avoid excessive provocations, slander and personal attacks.
He said political differences should not affect relationships among the people, stressing that candidates and supporters remained part of the same community.
“We are all still people of Melaka. I believe the people of Melaka are generally good and Insyallah, there will be no excessive provocations.
“I hold the Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate in high regard. We may differ in our political affiliations and views, but this election should be conducted in a positive manner, with greater focus on more important matters,” he said, referring to his opponent, Melaka Amanah Women's chief Rahayu Hamzah.
Dr Akmal also emphasised that campaigning should go beyond competing for votes, with parties focusing on their plans to govern the state over the next five years.
The Umno Youth chief won the Merlimau seat in the 2021 Melaka state election with 5,633 votes and a majority of 3,248 in a three-cornered contest against candidates from PH and Perikatan Nasional (PN).
He is now seeking to retain the constituency in a straight fight against Rahayu.
The Election Commission has set Nov 14 as polling day for the 16th Melaka state election, following nomination day on Oct 31.