We’re just trying to strengthen PN, says Gerakan youth chief

We’re just trying to strengthen PN, says Gerakan youth chief

PETALING JAYA: Gerakan Youth insists that the party’s call for Perikatan Nasional (PN) to issue a declaration aimed at addressing the concerns of non-Malay communities is only meant to strengthen the coalition.

Gerakan Youth chief Wong Chia Zhen noted that while party president Dominic Lau’s call for the declaration sparked mixed reactions, he insisted that it was not aimed at attacking any party.

“He just conveyed an undeniable reality, that PN needs the support of all layers of society, including non-Malay voters, in order to truly become a strong and relevant coalition,” Wong said in a statement.

“The declaration is merely a call to strengthen PN’s foundation as an inclusive coalition that does not rely solely on people of one race or religion.

“It is (also) a strategic move to ensure PN can attract the support of those disappointed with the Madani government but are still uncertain about PN.”

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He added that PN has “tremendous potential” to win the hearts of non-Malay voters, who he claimed have long felt marginalised by the current federal government.

In his speech at Gerakan’s 52nd convention at Menara PGRM last Sunday, Lau said such a declaration would serve to ease non-Malays’ apprehension and encourage support for the coalition in the 16th general election (GE16).

Lau said some non-Malays and non-Muslims felt anxious and fearful of PAS – which is the largest component party within PN and holds the most seats in the Dewan Rakyat – due to its policies and objectives aimed at making Malaysia an Islamic country.

“So, let’s make a declaration that Bersatu defends the rights of the Malays and PAS the Muslims, but that both will not interfere with the rights of other races,” he said during his speech.

PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man later dismissed Lau’s call, suggesting instead that Gerakan focus on strengthening the party and increasing its membership.