As Negeri Sembilan prepares for its state election on August 1, voters are expected to judge candidates based not only on popularity or political branding, but also on their record of service, development achievements, integrity and ability to govern.
Political analyst Dr Ariff Aizuddin Azlan said past performance provides the clearest indication of whether a leader can manage the state effectively and respond to the people’s needs. He noted that administrative results carry more weight than public perception because they offer measurable proof of a politician’s capabilities.
Attention is focused on three prominent figures: incumbent Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, who is contesting the Linggi seat for Pakatan Harapan; Barisan Nasional leader Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias in Pertang; and Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, who is defending Rantau. Each brings a different record of leadership and public service.
Aminuddin, who has led the state since 2018, is being assessed on his administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic recovery and efforts to attract investment. His government introduced assistance measures during the pandemic, including rental exemptions and reductions for local authority traders, as well as RM1,000 compassionate payments to families of those who died from the virus. Between June 2018 and February 2025, the state also provided 26,548 affordable housing units.
Jalaluddin, meanwhile, has gained broad administrative experience through his roles as a state assemblyman, state executive councillor and Jelebu Member of Parliament. Among his local initiatives was an allocation of RM265,000 to build, upgrade and repair playgrounds at villages, kindergartens and childcare centres in Jelebu.
Mohamad Hasan, widely known as Tok Mat, served as Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar for almost 15 years before taking on federal responsibilities, including as Defence Minister and later Foreign Minister. His leadership is associated with efforts to strengthen Negeri Sembilan’s industrial sector, attract foreign investment and create employment opportunities.
According to Ariff Aizuddin, all three leaders have their own strengths, but Aminuddin holds an advantage as the incumbent because voters can directly assess his administration’s record since 2018. Ultimately, the election is expected to reflect a more mature voting trend in which results and leadership performance matter more than a candidate’s name alone.
