KOTA LAKSAMANA – Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's daughter, Nooryana Najwa, better known as Yana Najib, has expressed relief and gratitude over her father's return home under house arrest, saying the development has also boosted the spirits of Barisan Nasional (BN) election machinery ahead of the Melaka state election.
Yana, who is also Umno Puteri Information Chief, said the family was grateful that Najib had returned home safely and in good health after his imprisonment.
She also thanked prison authorities for looking after her father throughout his time in prison and continuing to ensure his safety after his transfer to house arrest.
"As a family, we are very grateful that our father has returned home safely and in good health. I would also like to thank the prison authorities for taking care of him throughout his time in prison and for continuing to ensure his safety while he is under house arrest.
"I managed to meet him on Tuesday night, when our family welcomed his return. For now, he is still taking time to rest and calm his mind, and I was unable to visit him yesterday due to my ongoing campaign in Melaka.
"His return has also given me a boost in my election campaign, as I feel relieved that he has been able to undergo the house arrest process. It has lifted not only my spirits but also those of BN election machinery,” she said.
She told Sinar Daily this when met at a restaurant in Kota Laksamana, Melaka, during the 16th Melaka state election campaign.
On Nov 10, the Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled that Najib could serve the remainder of his prison sentence in the SRC International case under house arrest at his Langgak Duta residence, with immediate effect.
The Election Commission (EC) has set Nov 14 as polling day, following the dissolution of the 28-seat Melaka State Legislative Assembly on Sept 23.
Nomination day was held on Oct 31, while early voting took place on Nov 10. The 14-day campaigning period will end at 11.59pm on Nov 13.
A total of 79 candidates are contesting all 28 state constituencies, with a coalition requiring at least 15 seats to secure a simple majority and form the state government.