Kuala lumpur: Differences in demographics and voting patterns in Negeri Sembilan will be among the factors shaping Barisan Nasional's (BN) political strategy and candidate selection formula for the upcoming state election, said BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, emphasized the necessity of this approach due to the distinct characteristics of Negeri Sembilan compared to other states, particularly in terms of the number of seats and population composition.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid asserted, "The situation in Negeri Sembilan is certainly different because the number of seats, population demographics, and voting patterns also differ. So, BN's formula must be adjusted to suit the political situation in the state. We will announce the candidates this week." He made these remarks to reporters after attending a briefing session with the TVET@KKDW (Rural and Regional Development Ministry) contingent participating in WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, an event also attended by Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang.

Earlier, in his speech at the event, Ahmad Zahid highlighted BN's recent victory in the Johor state election as a testament to the party's mental resilience and emotional creativity in overcoming challenges throughout the campaign. On the topic of cooperation talks with PAS, including a proposed candidate for the Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar post, the UMNO president clarified that there was no formal agreement between the two parties, with discussions only reflecting an understanding that had yet to be finalized.

"Not everything should be accepted as an accurate statement because we do not have any agreement with PAS. Any discussions were merely based on an understanding, and we have not finalized anything," Ahmad Zahid stated.

Meanwhile, addressing calls for Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, who is also DAP deputy chairman, to resign, Ahmad Zahid remarked that statements on sensitive matters should be approached with reason, considering both parties are part of the Unity Government. "If we were in the opposition, making such statements might be considered appropriate, but when we are together in government, there is no need to raise such matters. I will meet him; he is my friend," he added.

Ahmad Zahid reassured that relations among Unity Government leaders at the federal level remain good and professional, with all parties committed to working together as one team until the end of the administration's term.