MUAR: Simpang Jeram voters have been told to pick a local as their representative instead of candidates who will be busy outside after the Johor state polls, says Barisan Nasional candidate Datuk Lokman Md Don (pic).

       Using his campaign tagline of #orgcnijagacni (#fromhereprotecthere), the Johor Umno deputy information chief said that voters needed a representative who will be able to focus and give their service to the people.

       He said unlike the incumbent - Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub who is defending his seat - who is a federal lawmaker (Pulai MP) and will have other responsibilities outside of the constituency after the state polls.

       "As a local, I will be here even after the state election," he said when met at Simpang Jeram Barisan operation centre.

       Lokman will be in a four cornered fight against Pakatan Harapan's Salahuddin, Perikatan Nasional's Zarul @ Mohamad Zahrul Salleh and Parti Pejuang Tanah Air (Pejuang) candidate Mahaizal Mahmor.

       Lokman said that he remained optimistic in his chances although Pakatan had held the seat for three terms.

       He explained that he would try to woo Chinese voters, in his constituency, as it comprised about 54% from the total votes.

       "I have gone and met them because they have been given the wrong information about Umno and Barisan.

       "So, I will do my best to try and explain our policies," he said.

       He also urged his assistants to handle themselves well as it could impact his campaign.

       "They need to behave and not simply stop cars just to give flyers for example.

       "People do not like that and will react negatively," he said.

       Johor will go to polls on March 12 while early voting has been set for March 8.