Najib quotes Deng Xiaoping in CNY greetings

The general election is around the corner and it was no surprise for Chinese voters in Selangor to receive greetings signed by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak before the coming Chinese New Year.

But this time it came with ang pau packets and a quote by former China communist leader Deng Xiaoping on reformation.

Deng (1904-1997) played a key role in China's move to a market economy. 

In reminding the Chinese community that reformation should not be rushed, Najib said in the bilingual letter that he is emulating the spirit of Deng in implementing the transformation programmes, by "crossing the river by feeling the stones".

This is a famous quote used by Deng (right) in 1980s to describe the communist party's pragmatic approach towards reformation, which he felt should be carried out gradually.

"This is the correct principle to live by. To realise change, there must be long term planning and step by step implementation," continued the premier.

Najib also said he is aware that there are some parties still suspicious of the transformation programmes, but he reminded that the process should not be hurried, but proceed in a systematic and balanced manner.

He said he was also aware that there are changes he is carrying out but not done fast enough. But he was also reminded by some Chinese friends that haste make waste.

"I wish all Chinese friends a Happy Chinese New Year and a peaceful and harmonious life," he concluded.

The letter ended with the Selangor BN election slogan "love Selangor, believe BN" and his signature.

Voting details

According to a voter from the Shah Alam parliamentary constituency, who wished to remain anonymous, his brother and sister, also the voters there, had received the letter on Monday through the post.

At the right upper part of the Chinese version letter, their voting details are included.

The letter also came with five ang pau packets which featured mugshots of Najib.

Incidentally netizens had poked fun at the packets, saying that Najib should have put some money inside.

This is not first time BN Selangor had sent letters of greeting signed by Najib to voters. This was also done for National Day, Thaipusam and New Year.

Najib has also expressed greetings to the Chinese community by hanging banners around the country and radio advertisements featuring his Mandarin speaking son, Nor Ashman.

Opposition leaders including Kelantan Menteri Besar Nik Aziz Nik Mat (left) and Selangor senior exco Teresa Kok, sent their Chinese New Year messages on YouTube.