Don't use religion to gain seats, says Umno VP

 

JOHOR BY-ELECTIONS | A top Umno leader has issued a reminder against "selling religion for seats" as doing so would hinder Malay-Muslims from proving the true credibility of those chosen to lead the country.

Speaking to reporters after a visit to Kampung Orang Asli Bakar Batu, Perling, Umno vice-president Johari Abdul Ghani urged Malays as a whole to understand how Islam encourages development.

"Do not use a 'slogan' to develop a ‘backward’ state. Don't sell religion for seats.

"To sell religion for seats means we (Muslims) cannot prove that our religion is led by people capable of nation development," said Johari (above) who is on the campaign trail for Pakatan Harapan’s Pulai candidate Suhaizan Kaiat.

Referring to Perikatan Nasional-led states in Perlis, Kelantan, Terengganu, and Kedah, the Titiwangsa MP said there are various dynamics in politics but development remains the most important proof of leadership.

"What’s important is showing proof of how you (PN) develop Perlis, Kelantan, Kedah, Terengganu. Only then will people believe in a progressive Islamist leadership.

"We (Harapan-BN) want to show the people,” he said.

In comparison, Johari cited the DAP-led Harapan administration in Penang as having more progressive developments under a non-Malay chief minister.

"In Penang for example, (the state is) not led by a Muslim but they are progressive," he added.

Johari (left) and Suhaizan with Orang Asli children

Further, Johari said BN's machinery supporting Harapan candidates in Pulai and Simpang Jeram is also to repay the “sincerity” shown by its new allies after the 15th general election.

Among others, he cited Harapan's support for BN to form state governments in Perak and Pahang when the Umno-led coalition failed to secure enough seats in GE15.

Similarly, in the last six state elections, Johari said BN's performance to only win two out of the 12 seats it was allocated had cost the Harapan-led government two-thirds majority control in the Selangor state assembly.

"That is why, for BN, when it comes to this Pulai by-election, the seat that was previously won by Harapan through Amanah, and not with a 100, 200 majority - they won with over 30,000 majority.

"We need to give back their right (to contest). We too want to show our sincerity. This is what is important," Johari said.

Developments for Orang Asli

Meanwhile, Suhaizan said there are 55 Orang Asli families residing on the 5.7ha of gazetted land, and future planned developments include building a new fishing jetty.

He said the new jetty will assist locals who primarily work as fisherfolk, as well as open up agrotourism opportunities in the area.

"With that, the general income of the locals can be increased and there will be dedicated boats travelling the area," he said.

The Election Commission has set Sept 9 as polling day for both the Pulai and Simpang Jeram by-elections. - Mkini