LATEST NEWS:

Han Kar Kay

The Star

Publication Date : 01-02-2013

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has advised Umno party leaders in Kedah to step up their efforts and ensure that their work in the run-up to the 13th general election is systematic and united.

Kedah Umno Liaison Committee chairman Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah said the prime minister emphasised the importance of unity, and said no one should shy away from focusing on the elections.

Najib gave the advice yesterday at a meeting with the Kedah Umno Liaison Committee at Bangunan Tunku in Alor Setar, northwestern Malaysia.

Kedah Umno leaders also pledged their commitment and support for the decision of the prime minister on the question of candidates and the scope of election work.

Kubang Pasu Umno Division chief Mohd Johari Baharom said Najib asked for the focus on voters to be stepped up.

He said the prime minister advised Umno leaders in Kedah to meet as many voters as possible, regardless of whether they were old or new voters, before the elections.

“The prime minister wanted the party machinery to be totally ready. He seemed convinced that Umno and the BN could win the elections,” he said.

Kuala Kedah Umno Division chief Datuk Latt Shariman Abdullah said the prime minister called for streamlining of work at the level of the polling district.

“It (the general election) is near. We are confident of wresting back Kedah because the people can evaluate our record and that of the opposition,” he said.

The state Barisan Nasional manifesto has outlined a race track for motorcycle racers, besides handing out RM100 to every first-time newlywed Muslim couples to attend marriage courses, said Najib.

“Other things will be announced later for Kedah,” the prime minister said at a gathering of thousands of youths under the Himpunan Orang Muda Negri Kedah programme at the Sultan Abdul Halim Stadium here.

Najib also launched the Bantuan Lesen 1Malaysia, which is a licence registration drive for young motorcyclists.

In his speech, Najib said the huge turnout indicated that the youths were working together with BN to bring positive changes to the country.

“Systematic changes are needed but it would not come through protests or violence.

“We will listen to the voices of the young and we are promising a better state government under Barisan rule,” he said.

Najib also cited Barisan’s successes in managing the economy such as by increasing the employment rate and lowering inflation.