The Penang Muda leader, who did not wish to be named, said the party stood a chance “mainly because of the amount of groundwork we’ve done in Penang and specifically in the area”.

The source said Muda was keen to find out the voting trends especially in view of PH and Perikatan Nasional’s performance as government and opposition respectively.

Data being compiled by the party showed that PH’s reputation among their voters has been steadily declining due to their performance. Voters who were dissatisfied with the two coalitions could turn to Muda, which is actively campaigning itself as a third force, the source said.

Muda fielded 19 candidates in elections to six state assemblies last year. All lost their deposits.

The party was still analysing the pros and cons in taking part in the Sungai Bakap by-election, the source said. “I believe it’s a good time to examine the trend.”

FMT has sought comment from Muda secretary-general Amir Abd Hadi.

The Sungai Bakap seat fell vacant following the death of PAS assemblyman, Nor Zamri Latiff, on May 24. The Election Commission has announced that the by-election would be held on July 6.

Zamri won the seat last August, defeating PH’s Nurhidayah Che Rose in a straight fight with a 1,563-vote majority.

Yesterday, Pakatan Harapan chairman Anwar Ibrahim said PH would announce its candidate next week, while it was reported that Perikatan Nasional would announce their candidate on June 16.