Voters treated to free meal of 'Nasi Arab Damsyik'

PD POLLS | Voters and electoral workers had a surprise when they were treated to a free meal near a polling station at Pasir Panjang, Linggi, earlier today.

The free meal was dished out from a road leading to the polling station at SJK(C) Chung Hua Pasir Panjang from 9am to 12pm.

Voters who were passing by were invited to get a taste of Nasi Arab Damsyik, one of the favourite meals in Negeri Sembilan, served with lamb and chicken meat.

Malaysiakini was first told that the free food was sponsored by one of the candidates, but no one claimed responsibility.

A group of people who were seen vociferously inviting people to the meal were clad in purple shirts that bore the image of the candidate.

They, however, denied that they were in charge of the free food or that the meal was sponsored by one of the candidates.

When approached by Malaysiakini, a man, Maszlee Manap, believed to be a supporter of one of the candidates, said the meal was prepared by the villagers.

"This is kenduri kampung (meal served by villagers). Today is a big day for the people in Port Dickson and when there is big day, the villagers (in Pasir Panjang) will provide food for the people," he said.

Maszlee (photo), however, did not reveal the name of the sponsor of the 250 packs of foods and drinks.

Asked whether the free meal was an electoral offence, he said: "We served the food to all parties, be they supporters from PAS and Pakatan Harapan, and voters.

"Is it wrong for workers of political parties to take free meal? You mean they cannot eat and drink in this hot weather?"

After he left, a woman, who declined to reveal her name, said the man is a strong supporter of one of the electoral contestants. - Mkini