SEREMBAN – Pakatan Harapan (PH) is aiming to win at least 23 of the 36 seats in the upcoming Negeri Sembilan state election on Aug. 1, with coalition deputy chairman Anthony Loke Siew Fook saying a stronger mandate is needed to ensure political stability and effective governance.

Speaking at a PH dinner in Seremban on Sunday, Loke said the coalition’s internal assessment indicates the target is achievable based on voter demographics and constituency analysis.

“Currently, we have 17 seats. That is not enough to form a majority. We need at least 19 for a simple majority, but with only 19, anything can happen. To ensure stability, we are targeting at least 23 seats,” he said.

Loke, who is also DAP secretary-general, Member of Parliament for Seremban and PH’s candidate for the Chennah state seat, said the coalition is seeking a renewed mandate to continue governing Negeri Sembilan under Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

Describing Aminuddin as an honest, humble and inclusive leader, Loke said the incumbent Menteri Besar had demonstrated integrity throughout his administration.

“We want Aminuddin Harun to continue as Menteri Besar because he has served with honesty and humility. He has not abused his position, and he has always been willing to work with everyone,” he said.

Loke also reiterated PH’s commitment to inclusive governance, stressing that the coalition represents Malaysians of all races and religions while focusing on policies that benefit all communities in the state.

He added that a stable state government would provide continuity for ongoing development initiatives, including infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity between Seremban and Kuala Lumpur.

Turning to national politics, Loke urged Malaysians to objectively evaluate Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership, arguing that the prime minister has strengthened Malaysia’s international standing through active diplomacy and expanded economic cooperation.

Loke also credited Malaysia’s diplomatic engagement with oil-producing nations for helping maintain stable fuel supplies despite global market uncertainties.

The Negeri Sembilan state election will be held on Aug. 1, with PH seeking to strengthen its position in one of its key political strongholds.