Nenggiri by-election: Felda Perasu voters must not be swayed by promises - Ahmad Zahid

GUA MUSANG, Aug 9 (Bernama) -- Voters in Felda Perasu here are advised to exercise caution and not be swayed by the promises made during the ongoing by-election campaign for the Nenggiri state by-election.

Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi urged settlers of this BN-established land development scheme to think carefully before casting their votes on Aug 17.

“If outsiders attempt to undermine Felda, I urge the settlers here to reject them, as the true victims will be the Felda Perasu settlers,” he said during his speech at the ‘Peneroka dan Felda Berpisah Tiada’ event at Dewan Semai Perasu here today. Also present was Felda chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

Felda Perasu, with 1,724 registered voters, is the only Felda land scheme under the Nenggiri state constituency.

The Deputy Prime Minister emphasised that the federal government has consistently ensured the welfare of Felda settlers and reaffirmed that the land scheme remains a top priority.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Rural and Regional Development Minister, noted that he has received numerous applications related to issues raised by Felda settlers nationwide and assured that he would address them to the best of his ability.

“When I commit to something, I will give it my all, God willing,” he said emphasising that when seeking support, protection or assistance, one should choose sources that are strong, safe and caring.

“If external forces attempt to undermine Perasu, we will reject them for now. Although I am not a son of a Felda settler, I have several relatives in Felda. What matters most is that I am entrusted with the responsibility to care for Felda, and I promise that Felda remains my priority.”

The Nenggiri by-election will be a straight fight between BN candidate Mohd Azmawi Fikri Abdul Ghani, representing the Unity Government and PAS candidate Mohd Rizwadi Ismail, who is contesting for Perikatan Nasional (PN).

It was called after Kelantan State Assembly Speaker Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah declared the seat vacant on June 19 because its assemblyman, Mohd Azizi Abu Naim, had ceased to be a Bersatu member on June 13.

-- BERNAMA