“I do not deny that I am being considered by the party leadership to be listed as a candidate in another area besides my parliamentary constituency, Pontian,” he told Bernama today.

“As long as I am given a chance to stand, it’s good enough,” said Hasni, who is Pontian Umno division chief and the state assemblyman for Benut since 2008.

He was the menteri besar from February 2020 to March 2022, when state elections were held and was believed to be the frontrunner to be appointed menteri besar again.

However, Onn Hafiz Ghazi, the assemblyman for Machap, received the nod and was appointed menteri besar.

Hasni, who had previously been MP for Pontian from 2004 to 2008, said he did not discount the possibility of negative reactions from local party members should outsiders be fielded in any constituency.

“I think such initial reactions are a normal thing, with some being lukewarm towards such candidates but with Barisan Nasional’s experience, we can overcome such problems. I am confident that it could be managed wisely.”

Hasni said the choice of candidates for the general election would not be based on the interest of individuals, but on ensuring victory for the party and the peace and prosperity of Malaysians.

“This is important in our strategy to win 16 to 17 parliamentary seats (out of a total of 26) in Johor,” he said.