Najib: Shed 'rice bowl' image

TIME FOR TRANSFORMATION: Najib tells supporters at SK Taman Awana Langgar, Pokok Sena, it's time for Kedah to emerge as a more developed and progressive society

PRIME Minister and Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Najib Razak swooped into Kedah on a whirlwind visit yesterday, and told its people it was time for the state to shed its “rice bowl” image and be transformed into a more developed and progessive society.

Achieving this is a real possibility under BN's transformation policies and economic programmes, as opposed to the Pakatan Rakyat's way of doing things, he said.

Najib was blunt when he told Kedahans to ditch opposition rule if they wanted changes that matter.

“The Opposition knows only how to go on street demonstrations and shout 'reformasi' but we are the real deal. We can propel Kedah to greater heights,” he told a large crowd at the opening of SK Taman Awana in Pokok Sena, near here.

Present were Kedah BN leaders and the four BN candidates contesting under side-by-side, giving the impression that the campaigners on both sides are sort of ‘friendly’ except having differing political ideologies. In Pasir Mas, Ibrahim’s yellow and black hibiscus flower posters stand out due to the colours.

Until today, no one could predict which side the Kelantanese would vote as the scenario is similar to 2004 and 2008 general elections.

“There is a change in the response of the people here towards BN compared with the last election in 2008 and this has given us more confidence," said Alwi Che Ahmad, the Kok Lanas parliamentary contestant.

As the state’s BN operations chief, Alwi is sincere about his ground readings given that the Kelantanese have lived under PAS rule for two decades and "changing their minds is not easy".

“Young voters appear to be with us as they participate in our activities and help as volunteers.

“It’s a good sign because these young and first time voters work outstation, which explains their openness in accepting BN’s brand of politics,” he said.

However, PAS candidate for Tumpat Kamaruddin Jaafar said PAS was confident of retaining the state based on the loyalty of young and old voters.

On the Chinese votes, Alwi and Kamaruddin both agreed that they have already made up their minds.
“They are wise and they know which party can represent them better," said Alwi.

Alwi said the Chinese were business-minded and their choice of politics was on the party that allowed them to continue with lives and businesses, while also giving them economic opportunities.

The weather is hot in Kota Baru but the present political environment is neither hot nor tense.

“Probably, it’s a lull before a storm on Friday night when PAS holds its mammoth gathering and special prayer at the stadium,” said a resident.

(Source: The Malay Mail)