Kota kinabalu: Barisan Nasional (BN) is confident it is on the right track to gain voter support as the 17th Sabah State Election enters the final stretch, despite all its candidates being considered underdogs. Deputy Prime Minister and BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said a consistent approach of engaging directly with voters has had a positive impact on community reception across various state constituencies.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, BN candidates are underdogs, and the party is working through consistent engagement with voters. Ahmad Zahid expressed confidence that the efforts made have satisfied the targeted voters. "Insya-Allah, they will cast their votes for us," he told reporters after officiating at the Sentuhan Kasih Desa Bongawan event.

He added that BN's machinery is refining its final operations to ensure continued support for the party until polling day. However, he hopes that in this last lap, there will be no issues in winning the targeted seats. "Insya-Allah," he said.

When asked about potential issues, Ahmad Zahid cited attempts by opponents to sway BN voters at the last minute. "For example, being 'poached' by another party. that must not happen. I urge BN voters to remain steadfast, consistent, and firm. If they want BN and feel a connection with the party, they should continue to vote for candidates representing Barisan Nasional," he stated.

On another matter, Ahmad Zahid mentioned that the participation of former Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin in several programmes with voters in Sabah has not caused any issues, as it was done in a personal capacity. He noted that Khairy's involvement in dialogues and programmes is the right of any individual who wishes to support friends in politics or specific candidates.

BN is contesting 45 of the 73 seats up for grabs, with polling scheduled for Saturday.