World · Malaysia Bureau
Umno Women Chief Denies Blocking Candidate in Pengkalan Batu Race
Melaka's Umno Women division chief says she accepted the party's decision on a new candidate but contends she should have been informed earlier as a matter of protocol and respect for her position.
LSN Malaysia ·
Kalsom Noordin, the Umno Women chief for Melaka, has clarified that she did not obstruct the party's selection of a new candidate for the Pengkalan Batu seat, pushing back against suggestions of resistance to the decision.
While confirming her acceptance of the party directive, Noordin expressed concern over the manner in which she was informed about the candidate change. She argued that her standing as the women's division chief warranted advance notice and proper consultation before the announcement was made public.
The controversy underscores ongoing discussions within Umno's Melaka chapter regarding candidate selection processes and internal communication protocols. Party leadership has maintained that decisions on candidacy remain within the purview of senior officials and the central party apparatus.
Noordin's comments suggest a broader conversation within the party about respecting hierarchical positions and ensuring that divisional leaders are kept apprised of major decisions affecting their areas of responsibility. The dispute does not appear to reflect fundamental disagreement over party strategy, but rather procedural differences on how changes are communicated internally.
The Pengkalan Batu seat remains a closely watched constituency in Melaka's political landscape, with Umno keen to consolidate support ahead of upcoming electoral contests in the state.