Gov't funding was to help BN win, says Perkasa official

Selangor Perkasa chief Abu Bakar Yahya said today that government funds channelled to Perkasa are intended to help BN win the next general election.

Abu Bakar also criticised Felda chairperson Mohd Isa Samad for revealing the funding to the public, according to a Sinar Harianreport today.

"As a party veteran, he (Isa) should not have made the statement that exposed the government to the risk of being attacked by its enemies. Even if he knew, just keep quiet, don't publicise it.

"If Perkasa receives funds, it is to help maintain BN's continuity in the 14th general election because Perkasa's agenda is to champion Malay rights and the federal constitution, not for personal use, Abu  Bakar is quoted as saying.

However, he said, Perkasa in Selangor largely receives its funds from the public and entrepreneurs.

Isa had on Dec 23 revealed that Perkasa received "plenty of help" from Umno after the right-wing group said it could replace Umno.

Following this, Perkasa secretary-general Syed Hassan Syed Ali admitted receiving funds from government agencies such as the National Security Council (MKN), National Civic Bureau (BTN) and Special Affairs Department (Jasa).

The revelation led to a barrage of criticism against the government, including from BN partners.