Najib tells Umno, BN leaders to learn from 2008 BUT WHAT ABOUT HIMSELF?

KULIM — Barisan Nasional (BN) and Umno leaders in the states ruled by the opposition should have learnt from the past experience that resulted in the BN failing to form the government in these states, said Datuk Seri Najib Razak tonight.

The prime minister said that after more than four years of the bitter experience after the 2008 general election, these leaders should realise their mistakes which had led to the defeat.

“It’s more than four years... if (we) have not learned, I don’t know what to say. If they feel angry (because of the defeat), after four years there should not be anymore (anger). If (they are) disappointed, they cannot be disappointed anymore.

“Now, it is time to redeem the defeat with undivided commitment. Only this can ensure our victory,” he said at a dinner with Kedah BN leaders, here.

Also present were the prime minister’s wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Chor Chee Heung and Kedah BN chairman Datuk Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah.

Najib, who is also the BN chairman, said the same mistakes must not be repeated.

“What is important is for us to unite and be prepared. There’s no other choice because only a united team that is prepared will win. (We) have to serve and contribute deeds. I myself have to work hard. Don’t let me work alone... must work as a team,” he said.

The prime minister said that if Umno and the BN only looked after certain people or ethnic groups, then this would not be serving the people.

“Umno should not only look after the Malays. Our partners (the BN component parties) must also look after the Malays and the other ethnic groups. No one should feel left out. We have to serve, act, apply strategy, sacrifice and have faith,” he said.

Najib said that as the party and government at the federal level, he would continue to do what was best for the people to convince them that the BN was better, more capable and reliable.

— Bernama