TAPAH - Perikatan Nasional (PN) deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin has defended the coalition as the most inclusive political entity in Malaysia, highlighting its commitment to serving all communities regardless of race or religion.
Speaking during campaign rounds in Ayer Kuning, Hamzah urged voters to support their candidate, Abd Muhaimin Malek, in tomorrow's by-election.
"How can I explain to the Chinese community that Perikatan Nasional is the most inclusive party?” he asked during a Perikatan Nasional mega ceramah held in Taman Golf, here last night.
He pointed to Kelantan as an example, where the Chinese community continues to thrive despite allegations by DAP of neglect.
"In Kelantan, Chinese people haven’t been deceived. The big Buddha is there, and there are many Chinese leaders running businesses.
"This proves that DAP’s narrative about Kelantan is false. The Chinese community remains integral and prosperous there,” he added.
Hamzah also addressed the Indian community's grievances, citing unfulfilled promises by Umno during previous administrations.
"Earlier, I met the Indian community and they shared their struggles with me. They face life-threatening situations daily because of broken promises by Umno. They assured me they will support PN’s candidate in Ayer Kuning,” he said.
The Larut MP also highlighted the challenges faced by young voters in Ayer Kuning, particularly unemployment.
"Many youths here told me, ‘Tok, it’s hard for us to find jobs.’ This is one of their main concerns and I want to address it,” Hamzah said.
He praised PN’s governance under former prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, citing the coalition’s efforts to provide aid to local entrepreneurs during its tenure.
"When Perikatan Nasional was in power, we provided substantial assistance to all communities, regardless of race. Our focus has always been on helping local businesses,” he said.
Hamzah further criticised the current administration, accusing it of spreading misinformation and failing to address pressing issues.
"There are too many baseless stories circulating nationwide today. That’s why I urge voters to support Ustaz Muhaimin, our candidate, who stands for fair and inclusive governance,” he said.
Urging voters to cast their ballots for PN’s candidate, Hamzah appealed for unity and trust in PN’s vision.
The Ayer Kuning constituency will be having its eleventh by-election tomorrow, which involves a three-cornered contest between Barisan Nasional candidate Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir, PN candidate Abd Muhaimin and Bawani KS from Parti Sosialis Malaysia.
The by-election was called following the death of its incumbent, Ishsam Shahruddin, on Feb 22 due to a heart attack.