Johor election victory crucial for Umno revival, says Zahid

BATU PAHAT: Umno must secure victory in the Johor polls as the starting point for the party’s revival after a difficult period following the 14th General Election (GE14) eight years ago.

Its president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman, said victory for Umno and BN was also crucial to ensure Johor remains the party’s ‘fixed-deposit’ (stronghold).

“What is important is that we must first ensure our candidates win, Insya-Allah, without arrogance or pride.

“But when there are state elections in Johor and later in Negri Sembilan, do not put pressure on us… do not block us from entering Felda areas.

Also present were BN secretary-general Datuk Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, BN candidate for Parit Yaani Datuk Najib Samuri, and BN candidate for Parit Raja Rashidah Ramli.

Zahid said the political reality in Johor was one of stability, clear strategy and firm focus, which had led both foreign and domestic investors to regard the state as an important investment destination.

At the same time, he aslo recognised the contributions of former menteris besar and previous administrations, who had played a role in the state’s development.

“We do not deny their contributions. But since BN returned to power in Johor under Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, I see it as extraordinary.

“This is the reality, and there are not many issues raised in Johor. Not many problems… it is not difficult to win.

DISYORKAN UNTUK ANDA :

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• Tuduhan ‘Dikawal’ Tidak Berasas, Jangan Heret Istana Johor Dalam Pertikaian Politik – Aznan
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“On May 11, we celebrated Umno’s 80th anniversary. Umno was founded at the Johor Bahru palace. This means Umno is not a party of the streets… not a family-based party.

“Umno is a party of all Malaysians,” he said.

Asked on BN’s campaign on the second day of the election, Zahid said everything was running smoothly and there had been no personal attacks or sensitive issues raised so far.

“If everyone continues with this approach, God willing there will be no problems for voters.

“Besides working politically, we also pray to Allah that what we are doing will bring extraordinary success,” he said.

Johor election victory crucial for Umno revival, says Zahid