GE13: Barisan vows to protect its bastion in Johor

Crowd puller: Najib mingling with the crowd during his visit to Taman Sentosa in Johor Baru.

 

PONTIAN: Barisan Nasional has vowed to do its all to protect its stronghold in Johor against the onslaught by “outsiders”.

Barisan chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said Johor was very important for the coalition as it was the place where the struggle for modern Malaysia began.

Najib, who is on a one-day visit to the state, said he had come here to ensure that the Barisan fortress in Johor remained intact and that its strength was not undermined.

“Do not forget the history of the country. That is why we must defend Johor, the place where it all started for modern Malaysia.

“We are urging the people here to give Barisan the mandate because we know we are better than the other party. All that they have done is lie to the people, just like how they have lied to the people of Selangor for five years,” he said in his speech at a gathering in Pekan Nanas here yesterday.

GE13: Najib and Muhyiddin mobilise to retain Johor as coalition’s southern stronghold

PETALING JAYA: The top two leaders of Barisan Nasional converged in Johor to boost the momentum of the campaign and retain the state as the coalition's southern stronghold.

Barisan chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and his deputy Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin spent the day campaigning in the state that is seeing some of the most keen contests in the 13th general election.

Johor is the home state of Muhyiddin, Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein, MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek, party youth chief Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong and MIC deputy president Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam.

The Prime Minister said the culture of moderation and accommodation known as “The Johor Way” had contributed greatly to the success of the state which would be threatened if Pakatan Rakyat seized power.

“I am appealing to the people to hold on to that (culture of moderation and accommodation) because the big dreams of the state will otherwise disappear, and that will be a sad day for Johor,” he told a gathering in Pekan Nanas, Pontian.

GE13: Advance voting underway

Perak police enforcement officers queueing up to cast their votes at the state police contingent headquarters on Tuesday.

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Police and navy personnel nationwide became the inaugural batch of advance voters who used indelible ink for the first time.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar led the way by being among the first to cast his vote, as policemen all over the country cast their votes at police contingents nationwide.

Starting from 8.30am, excited policemen lined up in Bukit Aman's Mass Hall and Dewan Perkep.

Ismail, when met after casting his vote, said the police was honoured to be part of history in using the indelible ink.

GE13: Vote for law-abiding leaders, says Najib

Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak having breakfast with locals at Pekan Kepala Batas.

 

ALOR SETAR: Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has advised voters to vote for law-abiding leaders.

"The rakyat should reject those who are out to divide and rule."

He said this while speaking to newsmen after the opening of the RM13.2mil SK Taman Awana in Pokok Sena.

Najib pledged that Barisan Nasional will build SMJK Keat Hwa 3 in Pokok Sena if the Barisan returns to power in Kedah.

Najib expressed confidence that Barisan would be able to wrest control of Kedah based on the mood on the ground.

"People want to see changes in Kedah," he said.

Najib: We need a strong mandate

KUALA LUMPUR : ANYTHING less than a strong mandate for  Barisan Nasional  can  lead to instability in the country, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

This was because there was a need to continue with the current robustness of the country's stock market and strong showing by the ringgit.

Najib said this when asked about several analyses and polls that suggested a likely "hung Parliament" scenario following the 13th General Election on May 5.

"That is not a good outcome for the country. Anything less than a strong mandate will lead to great uncertainty.

"The markets, during the last few days, have become more positive.

"The stock exchange and the ringgit have grown stronger, so I think it bodes well for the general election," Najib told Al Jazeera's Veronica Pedrosa during the Talk to Al Jazeera programme, which started airing yesterday.

Najib: Umno on track to change

Najib during his interview with ‘Talk to Al Jazeera’, journalist Veronica Pedrosa which was aired last Saturday.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak speaks to Veronica Pedrosa in `Talk to Al Jazeera', which was aired last Saturday.

Al Jazeera: Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, thank you very much for joining us on "Talk To Al Jazeera". We appreciate that it must be an extraordinarily busy and crucial time for you. There are descriptions of the election ahead as being indeed a struggle for the Malay soul, as it were. Do you think that's a fair enough description?

Najib: Let me put it this way, I think this will be a very hard-fought, robust election but I welcome it because in a sense, it is reflective of how far we have come in the democratic process in Malaysia. We are much more matured in that sense. But as a political party, we have been in power for 55 years (and) within this time we have brought some real changes and development in Malaysia. So although I expect this to be a keenly-fought contest, I am cautiously optimistic that the voters will return the Barisan Nasional (BN) national front back into power.

How do you personally feel about that? You've been in politics since you were 22. You come from a political dynasty.

In that sense (yes) but my father died when I entered politics so he was not there to ensure that I rose in politics. I had to do it my way, albeit with a good family name, I have no doubt about that. That helped but I had to fend for myself. I had to show that I could stand on my own. I'm proud of my personal record because I have risen through the ranks step by step and now I am privileged and honoured to be able to lead this country and my party.

Waytha: Pakatan betrayed Indians

GEORGE TOWN: Hindraf today hit out at Pakatan Rakyat for betraying Indians after riding on the ‘Makkal Sakti’ (people’s power) wave to score unprecedented electoral success in the 2008 general election.

Persatuan Hindraf Malaysia (Hindraf) leader, P Waythamoorthy, said that Pakatan leaders like Anwar Ibrahim, Lim Kit Siang and Lim Guan Eng chanted ‘Makkal Sakti’ everywhere to woo Indian votes in 2008, only to turn their backs on the community.

He blasted Anwar and company for being cold, insensitive and unresponsive to the plight of the marginalised segment of the Indian community for the past five years, culminating in their arrogant rebuff of the movement’s blueprint.

“Pakatan leaders gave Hindraf a run around before dumping the blueprint. On stage they perform a multi racial political stunt. In reality, they look down on Indians. They only want Indian votes, not their problems,” said Waythamoorthy.

He also hit out against Pakatan state governments for alienating the marginalised segment of the community by demolishing their settlements, burial grounds and religious places in Kedah, Penang and Selangor.

He said that the PKR-led Selangor government had demolished many Hindu temples and settlements over the years.

The ruthless demolition of Kampung Buah Pala in Penang, said Waythamoorthy, was the first sign of Pakatan’s intention of using Indians for piggy-back rides to power before dumping them.

Even though the previous BN government started the condominium project plan, he said Lim’s Penang government could have still saved the village by a stroke of a pen by invoking Section 76 of the National Land Code (NLC) and Section 3 of the Land Acquisition Act (LAA).

“But Lim’s government chose not to do, giving lame excuses. He was directly responsible for the village demolition,” said Waythamoorthy.

Tekun Provides The Lifeline For Indian Entrepreneurs

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama) -- M.Jayaseelan had been working as a goldsmith at a Chinese company since 1989, and his dream of venturing on his own had been hindered because of the lack of capital.

Yet all that changed four months ago when he sought a loan from the National Entrepreneur Group Economic Fund (Tekun Nasional) to purchase new jewellery making tools and equipment to set off on his own.

"I saw an advertisement of the Special Secretariat for the Empowerment of Indian Entrepreneurs (SEED). I applied through the Indian Entrepreneur Development Scheme (SPUMI) and my loan was approved," said the proud owner of Kamalam Gems and Jewels to Bernama.

Jayaseelan, like the thousands of Indians in the country face an uphill task in starting or expanding business as the avenues to raise capital is extremely limited.

This is where Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak stepped in with funds RM180 million, dedicated to Indian traders and businessmen through various organisations.

Malaysia is well on its way to achieving high-income status

GNI per capita up 49% since 2009 following the launch of the Economic Transformation Programme

Great accomplishment: The country may achieve high-incom e-nation status by 2018, two years ahead of the 2020 goal, especially after the rollout of the ETP.

  

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is well on its way to achieving high-income status by 2020 or earlier, going by official data and economic performance thus far.

While there has been much debate over how effective the various measures and initiatives under the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) have been, numbers do not lie.

In terms of gross national income (GNI), Malaysia saw its GNI per capita increase to US$9,970 (RM30,239) as of end last year compared to US$6,700 (RM20,321) in 2009, a surge of 49% in the three years since the ETP was launched.

The ETP, the brainchild of Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, contains a detailed plan of action that aims to place the country in the high-income band, as defined by the World Bank's criterion of US$15,000 per capita based on GNI by 2020.

The ETP was launched in October 2010, which saw gross domestic product (GDP) rise 7.2% year-on-year in that year. Projects under the ETP have given the economy a much-needed boost amid a slowdown in trade and the bleak global outlook, with GDP up 5.1% in 2011 and 5.6% last year.

For one thing, robust domestic demand, especially in private consumption, continues to be an indication that people's incomes have risen, while the continued growth of the economy also indicates income growth, especially since many jobs have been created in areas which have pushed the country's manufacturing sector up the value chain.

At end-2012, projects under the ETP had attracted committed investments of RM211.34bil and grew GNI to RM135.64bil, creating 408,443 jobs. The ETP as a whole envisions investments worth RM1.4 trillion and the creation of 3.3 million jobs in the 2011 to 2020 period for the country to achieve high-income status.

According to the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu), Malaysia had surpassed its GNI and GDP targets for last year.

Pemandu pointed out that the country might even reach high-income-nation status by 2018, two years ahead of the 2020 goal, should current projections hold true, when measured against GDP growth, especially after the rollout of the ETP.

Ringgit set for best month in a year

Malaysia’s ringgit headed for its best month in more than a year and government bonds advanced on speculation monetary easing in Japan and the US has spurred inflows into the nation’s assets.

Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda announced on April 4 a plan to buy 7.5 trillion yen (US$77 billion) of debt a month, almost as much as the Federal Reserve’s US$85 billion of purchases. Malaysia’s overnight policy rate is at three per cent, compared with 0.1 per cent in Japan and 0.25 per cent in the US. The FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI Index of shares closed at an all-time high on April 26, while the yield on benchmark five-year government bonds touched an eight-month low of 3.16 per cent on April 15.

"The search for higher yields has benefited the ringgit," said Choong Yin Pheng, a senior manager for fixed income and economic research at Hong Leong Bank Bhd in Kuala Lumpur. "We still enjoy a positive interest-rate differential."

The ringgit strengthened 2.1 per cent this month, the most since January 2012, to 3.0292 per dollar as of 9.33am in Kuala Lumpur, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. It is the best performer among Asia’s 11 most-traded currencies in April. The ringgit rose 0.1 per cent today, the fifth day of gains.

Malaysia will hold general elections on May 5, with the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition attempting to extend its unbroken 55-year run in power since independence. The ringgit, which weakened 1.2 per cent against the dollar in the first quarter, has benefited since Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak dissolved parliament on April 3, removing uncertainty as to the timing of elections, Choong said.

One-month implied volatility, a measure of expected moves in exchange rates used to price options, climbed 151 basis points in April and 40 basis points today to 8.34 per cent.

The yield on the 3.26 per cent bonds due March 2018 dropped six basis points, or 0.06 percentage point, this month to 3.16 per cent, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The rate was steady today.-- Bloomberg

(Source: http://www.btimes.com.my)

P. Kamalanathan lauds Najib for giving recognition to Hindraf

KUALA LUMPUR: Hulu Selangor Parliamentary candidate, P.Kamalanathan lauded the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak for giving recognition to The Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf).

"The chairman of Hindraf, Waytha Moorthy, had gone over to Opposition leader, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim 26 times in order to discuss their blueprints, and no recognition was given, let alone a discussion.

"One day before Waytha Moorthy was scheduled to meet the Prime Minister, Anwar had called him over, and despite Waytha's effort to be hopefully present for the promised meeting, Anwar was not present," he said during a visit to an MIC operations room in Batang Kali.

Kamalanathan said that Waytha had not expressed any ill intentions.

"All he had asked for, was for the betterment of the indian community and was rightfully deserving of an opportunity to put forward his ideas," he added.

Kamalanathan shared that,Pakatan Rakyat, had once used the "Makkal Sakti"  (People power) tagline to campaign during the 2008 elections, in order to appeal to the indian community.

"Taking that into consideration, now choosing not to recognise Hindraf and neglecting their needs and intentions seems like an act of unfairness,"

Recently,a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Hindraf and Barisan Nasional was signed to make right all previous shortcomings in addressing the plight of marginalised Malaysians, including the poor among the Indian community.

The MoU which was signed by Datuk Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor on behalf of BN while Waytha Moorthy represented his organisation was witnessed by the Prime Minister.

The memorandum was described as a smart partnership between BN and Hindraf, the MoU aims to bring poor Indians into the mainstream of the country's development.

(Source: http://www.nst.com.my)

Najib Accords Due Honour, Respect For Tamil Writers In Malaysia, Says Thanenthiran

KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has accorded due honour and respect and has given hope to Tamil writers in the country for their literary works to be published in the form of books.

Najib's recognition and appreciation would spur and inspire the younger set to produce more literary works, Makkal Sakti president Datuk R.S. Thanenthiran said.

He said Najib was the only prime minister who have to date launched 10 Tamil books written by Malaysian writers.

"Najib's seriousness to value and appreciate the role played by Tamil writers gives ample avenue for them to publish more books and to help young and budding authors to hone their writing skills," he told Bernama.

Thanenthiran said strong emphasis should be given to produce Tamil literary works as they could be used as a medium of reference for the current developments unravelling and historical events that have happened in the country.

He said the publishing of Tamil literary works must be continued to preserve the Indians' cultural heritage and Tamil literature for the benefit of the younger generation.

Keep supporting BN: Najib

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak wants the people to keep supporting the Barisan Nasional (BN) and allow the coalition to enhance the public transport system in the country.

In his Facebook today, the prime minister said the BN had drawn up a systematic plan to transform public transportation in the country.

"We, in the BN, are aware that public transport is important for people in the country," he said, while sharing his RapidKuantan bus ride experience yesterday.

He noted that there was an improvement in the public transport system.

He said the Kuantan central terminal at Bandar Indera Mahkota which would start operating in June, this year, was built to improve the living standard of the local population.

"The terminal will be a new landmark to the rapid development in Kuantan when fully completed next June," he said.

While visiting the terminal yesterday, Najib said the public transport transformation was important for the country to achieve developed nation status and its efficiency would enable people in the urban and rural areas to enjoy better convenience.

The terminal, built at a cost of RM55 million, can accommodate 46 buses at one time and will have parking facilities for 354 vehicles and 170 motorcycles, a food court and two fastfood restaurants. -- BERNAMA

(Source: http://www.nst.com.my)

Evaluate wisely between transformation and reformation: Najib

KUCHING (April 27, 2013): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak today advised the people to make a wise evaluation between the transformation brought about by the government and the reformation propagated by the Opposition.

Over the past four years, the Barisan Nasional (BN) government had persistently brought about a comprehensive transformation in the government, economic, political and social spheres, he said when addressing about 6,000 people at the Kampung Semeba community hall in Jalan Stephen Yong, here.

Najib said transformation was better than reformation because the former would make Malaysia a developed nation by 2020 while the latter did not have a clear objective and was confined to making one individual the prime minister, even if the people had to be dragged into street demonstrations.

"Transformation does not stand for huge numbers alone. I do not want anyone to say that he or she did not benefit from the government transformation. It is for this reason that from the outset, it had been determined that transformation must have an impact on and benefit the ordinary people.

"When we talk of transformation, it is the generation of national wealth for the people's benefit," he said.

Don't sabotage to ensure outstanding victory for BN: Najib

RAWANG (April 28, 2013): As the general election campaign entered its second and final week, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak reminded the party machinery to check internal problems like sabotage to ensure that the Barisan Nasional BN) achieves an outstanding victory in the May 5 polls.

The prime minister and BN chairman said he could see good momentum in the people's support for BN and the party's status was rising, including in regaining the people's support in many places.

"I just want to remind (the party machinery) that we must check (internal problems) or else it will affect our performance.

"I've said that a two-third victory is still achievable on condition that there are no internal elements to spoil our performance.

"(Internal problems) mean sabotage or shirkers and so forth. If we are united and work very hard there's no reason why the BN cannot win with outstanding results," he told reporters after meeting the villagers of Kampung Baru Sg. Terentang here today.

Najib said he saw that the support of the people in the peninsula was good in some places while in others the BN had to work more to gain their support.

Govt to continue giving BR1M: Najib

RAWANG (April 28, 2013): Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak said today the 1Malaysia People's Aid (BR1M) would continue to be given because it was a focused programme which had a major impact on the people.

The prime minister said BR1M reached the target group more than the bulk subsidy which he added also benefit the rich, foreign workers and law breakers such as smugglers.

"There is much leakage (in bulk subsidy), but with BR1M the recipients can make use of the money to shop, buy infant milk, school bags and clothing.

"This can indirectly help uplift the local economy such as the farmers' markets, retail shops and so on," he told reporters after meeting the residents of Kampung Sungai Terentang, here.

Najib was commenting on the alleged belittling of the BR1M payment by the opposition political parties.

The federal government introduced in 2012 the BR1M annual payment of RM500 for every household with a total monthly income of up to RM3,000. This year, it also paid RM250 to single unmarried individuals with a monthly income of up to RM2,000.

Najib said the government would continue to give the BR1M payment if it was given a fresh mandate in the 13th General Election come May 5.

He said the programme might be improved as per the pledge made in the BN manifesto. The manifesto had pledged to raise the BR1M to RM1,000 next year.

"We know that the programme benefits the people. So, the opposition is trying to turn it into a controversy.

"However, the people want the programme to be continued and the sum increased," he said. – Bernama

(Source: The Sun Daily)

Najib says he's younger and has more FB fans

11.15pm - Sibu, Sarawak: Caretaker prime minister Najib Abdul Razak claims he represents "change" as he is younger than all his political rivals - PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim, PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang and DAP supremo Lim Kit Siang.
                                               
"You talk about change - among Kit Siang, Anwar, Hadi and myself, who can representing change?" he asks a 1,500-strong crowd in Sibu, which responds with "Najib".

He then asks: "Who is the youngest of the four?", "Who is more in tune with the younger generation?", "Who has the biggest Twitter followers in the country?" and "Who has the biggest Facebook fans?"

Each time, the crowd responded with "Najib".

"You don't need to change the government. We are changing for the better, we can bring more change.

"You said you love the prime minister, I need you to vote for my colleagues who stand in Sibu, Lanang and all 222 parliamentary seats, who are contesting under BN," he says.

"That's the way you can show me that you love me as prime minister," he adds, referring to the crowd who are wearing "I love PM" T-shirts as well as holding “l love PM” placards.

(Source: http://www.malaysiakini.com)

Najib pleased postal voting process going on smoothly

KUALA LUMPUR (April 29, 2013): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak said today he was pleased to see the postal voting process going on smoothly as more than 50 per cent of postal voters have cast their votes.

"(I am) pleased to see our introduction of overseas voting is going smoothly, (as) more than 50 per cent of postal votes have already been cast for 13th General Election (GE13)," he said in his latest Tweet.

For the first time, in this general election, the Election Commission (EC) has introduced postal voting for Malaysians who reside overseas. The overseas postal voting, which was carried out yesterday, saw 50 to 60 per cent of Malaysians cast their votes in countries such as Australia, India, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and China.

Arrangements had been made for the 6,339 overseas postal voters to cast their votes at 103 missions worldwide. The postal voting applies to Malaysians residing overseas except for those staying in Singapore, southern Thailand, Brunei and Kalimantan in Indonesia. – Bernama

(Source: The Sun Daily)

Najib friendly towards Sarawak, says Taib

MEMORABLE OCCASION: Taib, flanked by longhouse chief Akoh on his right and Hasbi, launching the Rumah Akoh RES project as Awang Tengah (left) looks on.

LIMBANG: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak is friendlier towards Sarawak than Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was when he was the deputy prime minister, and this is reflected in the huge allocations given to the state in recent years.

Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud told the 1,500-strong crowd attending the launching of a RM6 million rural electricity supply (RES) project at Rumah Akoh in Ulu Limbang yesterday that Anwar had at one time diverted some funds meant for the state elsewhere.

“For instance, he diverted money meant for Unimas (University Malaysia Sarawak) and other projects when he was in the Cabinet,” Taib said at the longhouse in Sungai Ensurai.

Urging the people to sideline Pakatan Rakyat, Taib said the pact had contradicting stands and would be a poor substitute for the BN.

He predicted that PAS, a component of the Pakatan coalition, would end up empty handed in Sarawak in the May 5 general election.

The Opposition, he pointed out, were bent on running down the BN government despite the government having made great strides in the socio-economic front.

GE13: Najib announces approval for another Foon Yew branch

JOHOR BARU: The Government has approved the setting-up of another branch campus for Foon Yew High School in Sri Alam to cater to the growing need for Chinese education in the state.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who made the announcement, said that Barisan Nasional was a government that served all races.

“I am approving this based on the requests from Johor Baru incumbent MP Tan Sri Shahrir Samad,” he said to thunderous applause during an event in Taman Sentosa here yesterday.

Foon Yew High School, which is over 100 years old, has its main campus in Stulang and another branch campus in Kulaijaya with over 10,000 students.

Najib also urged voters to look at the “big picture” and continue to support Barisan as Johor was a land of promise and so far, only a portion of development has been carried out in Iskandar Malaysia.

“We have more plans for Johor, including having a high-speed train. The country's landscape will change with the prices of land in Johor Baru increasing as this will be a hub,” he said.

Later during a dinner with various non-governmental organisations at the Southern University College, Najib said the Gelang Patah parliamentary seat would be returned to the MCA in the next general election.

“This is just temporary. This is just a five-year TOL (temporary occupational license),” he said.
Najib also said that he agreed to Chinese vernacular school to be built in Iskandar Malaysia.

MCA Youth chief Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong said that Najib's announcement on Foon Yew was definitely good news as it was a symbol of the Chinese community in Johor, with five primary schools and two secondary schools in the state.

Dr Wee was confident that the school board would be able to develop the new campus on a 9.3ha site in Sri Alam similar to its branch campus in Kulaijaya.

Asked whether the announcement will help shore up support from the Chinese community to Barisan in the state, he said: “This announcement is something that the Chinese community here has been waiting for.”

Meanwhile, Foon Yew High School management committee vice-chairman Tong Sing Chuan said the developer in Sri Alam had allocated the land for the school.

He added that they decided to seek approval for the building of the school several months ago and was confident the Chinese community would help fund and develop the new campus.

(Source: The Star Online)

Najib holds Sibu folk spellbound

BATTLE CRY: Najib raises the hands of Lau (second left) and Tiong (third right) and joined by Talif (left), Wong (second right) and Dr Annuar (right).

SIBU: The usually quiet open space near Paramount Hotel here was transformed into a sea of blue as supporters waved BN flags enthusiastically and held high ‘I Love PM’ placards when Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak came a calling on Saturday.

1MALAYSIA IN ACTION: Najib cracking a joke which had the mammoth crowd in stitches.

Many had converged on the area as early as 6pm even though they knew that the prime minister would be there only at about 8pm.

By 7pm, the crowd had grown to a mammoth size, and when Najib arrived at 8.11pm, they presented him loud ‘1Malaysia’ cheers.

Security was tight with policemen and Rela personnel busy maintaining law and order as the excited crowd jostled for space to catch a glimpse of Najib and his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor.

BN Sibu candidate Vincent Lau and Lanang candidate Datuk Tiong Thai King started the ball rolling by delivering hard-hitting speeches that kept the crowd on their feet.

When Najib took over the microphone, he said he was told that the crowd at PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s ceramah (political talk) was nothing compared to theirs.

Families get keys to houses after 12 years

KUALA SELANGOR - About 2,500 families rejoiced yesterday as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak officially handed over keys to their homes in Bandar Alam Perdana, here.

The handover signalled the end of a 12-year wait for the low-cost flat owners, who were dejected when the previous developer had abandoned the project. 

Najib said the project had been fraught with obstacles as the Pakatan state government had refused to issue a development order. 

"When the state government does not cooperate with the Barisan Nasional government, they are not cooperating with the people.

"Not only did they not allocate funds to revive this project, but they also obstructed the project," he said at the site here yesterday. 

However, he added that the Federal Government had allocated RM200 million (S$81 million) for the homes, as well as ensuring that Syarikat Perumahan Negeri Berhad took over and saw the project to completion.

Only BN can guarantee a prosperous S'gor, says Najib

 

SELANGOR Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak reminded the people of Selangor to not endanger their future generation by voting in the opposition during the 13th general election.

Najib, who is also the Barisan Nasional (BN) chairperson, said: "I can assure you (people) that if Selangor comes under BN which will be the same as the federal government, Selangor will certainly become a developed state.

"We can experiment, but it will endanger our future and the future of our children. Only BN can guarantee a prosperous future and we want the people of Selangor to enjoy the same benefit.

GE13: BN win - a boon for stock market on greater certainty

KUALA LUMPUR (April 24): A convincing victory for Barisan Nasional (BN) in Malaysia’s 13th general election (GE13) will see the stock market make a quantum leap as there is certainty in the current economic policies and reforms will continue.

The market will also likely see positive reaction even if BN wins by a small margin, as this is what most analysts are expecting.

Analysts and fund managers generally feel the market will jump if BN wins convincingly as the victory will offer assurance on the continuity of existing political and economic policies such as the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) and Government Transformation Programme (GTP).
Affin Investment Bank Bhd analyst Andy Ong said if BN wins with a small majority, which is the baseline case adopted by most observers, the country’s political risk will recede and domestic liquidity will return to lead to an immediate market upside.

Credit Suisse analyst Tan Ting Min said the research firm expects the KLCI to see a “relief rally” should BN wins convincingly and caretaker Prime Minister  Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak secures sufficient mandate to continue leading the coalition.

According to Tan, companies seen benefiting from a continuity in the nation’s leadership include CIMB Group Holdings Bhd, Gamuda Bhd, IJM Corp Bhd, IJM Land Bhd, Genting Bhd, Genting Malaysia Bhd, Bumi Armada Bhd, Tenaga Nasional Bhd, and UEM Land Holdings Bhd.

GE13: Respect the choice of others, actress Lee Sin Jie tells cyber bullies

KUALA LUMPUR: Award-wining actress Lee Sin Jie (pic) urged voters to respect the choice of other people as Malaysia is a democratic country, major Chinese newspapers reported.

“Every person has the right to vote. We should respect this. Malaysia is a democratic country. I hope our country will stay peaceful,” said the actress who hails from Alor Setar, Kedah.

Lee, who shot to fame in the horror film The Eye, was asked to comment on cyber bullies attacking artistes who showed their support for certain political parties.

“No matter who you support, this is the voters' right. No matter who will rule the country, I hope the people will not be too emotional.

“I do not hope to see trouble in the country,” she said at a function here on Tuesday.

International artiste Datuk Seri Michelle Yeoh had been attacked by cyber bullies for her open support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

RM66 mln to bring electricity to Sibuti

MIRI: The Sarawak government has approved a RM66 million allocation to implement electricity supply in Sibuti from 2009 to 2014.

“There are still many other rural areas that need them. The effort to provide electricity is a continuous effort,” Second Minister of Resource Planning and Environment Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said during a leader-meet-the-people session at Rh Duat Kalom, Sungai Kelintang, Sibuti on Tuesday.

Awg Tengah cited the example of 58-door longhouse Rh Duat Kalom that was allocated RM1.8 million for its rural electrification project.

A similar amount was given to the longhouse for its clean water supply project.

Such efforts prove that BN has not neglected rural areas in Sarawak.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has given huge allocations to Sarawak in the last four years.

Iskandar a success story: Mobius

Mark Mobius

 

SINGAPORE: Iskandar Malaysia is becoming a major success story for Malaysia, said Mark Mobius, executive chairman of Templeton Emerging Markets Group, Franklin Templeton.

“It is a good example of diligent planning and foresight on the part of the Government. The area has now reached the take-off' point where developments would become self-generating and create a virtuous circle,” he told Bernama.

Singapore is the largest investor in Iskandar Malaysia.

Mobius, who was sharing his views on the election process, said the risks were minimal and as long as the close cooperation between Singapore and Malaysia continued, it would be a win-win situation for both countries.

Under the administration of Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, bilateral ties between Malaysia and Singapore were now at an excellent stage.

This was proven during the Singapore-Malaysia Leaders' Retreat in February, where both Najib and Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong reaffirmed their commitment to a stronger and mutually beneficial partnership.

GE13: PM addresses Kota Belud crowd via phone

KOTA BELUD: Bad weather kept Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak from addressing the crowd here. So, he did the next best thing he spoke to them by telephone from Papar.

The Barisan Nasional chairman was supposed to visit the Kota Belud parliamentary constituency as part of his stopover during his two-day visit to Sabah but nature had other plans yesterday.

Najib, who was in Papar earlier, could not make the trip because of bad weather and the helicopter ferrying him could not take off.

Instead, he addressed the crowd via telephone after Kota Belud incumbent Datuk Abdul Rahman Dahlan called him.

“I am so sorry that I could not be there because the weather was so bad that the helicopter just could not take off.

“I was eager to meet with all of you in Kota Belud, which is a Barisan stronghold,” he said as the crowd cheered.

GE13: Barisan hoping to use disunity among opposition parties to its advantage

KOTA KINABALU: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak hit the campaign trail in Sabah to shore up support for candidates guarding Barisan Nasional's fixed deposit turf against an onslaught of opposition parties.

Barisan candidates are hoping to pounce on disunity between Pakatan Rakyat and local-based opposition parties to turn more than a dozen grey seats to white by polling day.

Since nomination, catchy slogans for change and autonomy have been dampened by mutiny and fierce infighting among PKR, DAP, PAS and local-based Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) and State Reform Party (STAR).

In the past few days of campaigning, a good number of voters appeared confused over which opposition party stood for what slogan and had remarked that if opposition leaders remain at loggerheads, it would be an easy victory for Barisan.

Barisan candidates are capitalising on the Prime Minister's transformation and 1Malaysia mantras and the promise of another round of Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia.

GE13: 20% oil royalty will scare off firms, says Najib

BEAUFORT: The Opposition's promise to increase Sabah's oil royalty from the present 5% to 20% would kill off interest in developing the offshore petroleum industry, said Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

The Prime Minister said under the current arrangement, petroleum companies were keen to tap into marginal fields that would eventually mean an increase in revenue for Sabah.

“This will not happen with the Opposition's promise of a 20% royalty share for Sabah.

“There will be no incentive for petroleum companies to develop our fields,” he said when launching Yayasan Sabah's roadshow in Kuala Penyu near here.

Najib said although Sabah gets 5% of petroleum revenue now, the state receives more in terms of development funds and numerous special financial allocations from the Federal Government.

At the event, the Prime Minister also launched the 1.2km-long Sitompok Bridge costing about RM59.6mil located just outside of Kuala Penyu town.

The Kuala Penyu state constituency is located within the Beaufort parliamentary seat where PKR's Datuk Lajim Ukin is taking on Barisan Nasional's Datuk Azizah Mohd Dun.

GE13: Najib, Muhyiddin express concern over blast at ceramah

KENINGAU: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has expressed concern and regret over Tuesday night's explosion at a Barisan Nasional ceramah in Nibong Tebal.

The Barisan chairman said he had reminded all concerned to campaign responsibly and ethically to avoid tension.

"Such an incident should not have happened and I hope there will be no more recurrences.

"All those concerned must campaign in a healthy manner and practise democracy in the true sense of the word," he said.

He reminded everyone involved in the elections to keep their emotions in check and not let their feelings get the better of them during campaigning.

On Tuesday night, a blast occurred at a Barisan ceramah in Taman Jawi Jaya in Nibong Tebal, where Penang Gerakan chairman Datuk Teng Hock Nan was speaking to about 3,000 people.

One party worker was slightly injured, it was reported.

Give the mandate to BN for promises kept

KUCHING: For promises kept, if not more in the wave of benefits rolled out, the people have been reminded to vote for the Barisan Nasional (BN) government come polling day on May 5.

Welfare, Women and Family Development Minister Datuk Fatimah Abdullah, who said this, pointed out that only BN government is sympathetic with the plight of the needy and ever ready to lend help and support by distributing BR1M, welfare aids for the needy, setting up of 1Malaysia shops (KR1M) and 1Malaysia clinics.

For example, the daily necessities like cooking oil, sugar and rice are government-subsidised to lessen the burden of the people.

“Give the mandate to the BN government to lead the people, with over two thirds seat in the Parliament. All the aid received by the people are the results from the leadership of our Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak,” said Fatimah at the Kar1sma aid presentation at Kampung Semariang Batu multipurpose hall on Monday.

She hoped that the people will not forget the aid given by the BN government and continue to support BN, as they are very lucky to receive these benefits.

She added that the assistance given proved how much the BN government goes to the ground and reach out to the needy to help them.

BR1M Helps Reduce Financial Burden Of Low Income Earners - Recipients

KUALA LUMPUR, April 24 (Bernama) -- The government's commitment to ease the burden of the rising cost of living among the low income earners through the 1Malaysia People's Aid (BR1M) has been of great significance to the Chinese and Indian community in the country.

A newspaper vendor, T. Subbulekchumi, 55, said the RM500 BR1M had provided her with extra cash to buy groceries and other essential items.

"I also used a portion of the aid as capital for my newspaper business, while the second BR1M was used to pay deposit for a new room which my husband and I are staying.

"I have a son, who is a taxi driver, but he is married and stays elsewhere," she told Bernama.

Subbulekchumi, whose husband, A. Eraiah, 63, has heart ailment, said she was grateful to be among the BR1M recipients as it helped to reduce her financial burden.

She praised the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, for its concern for the people's well-being.

Another BR1M recipient, M. Krahalatchumi, 50, a single mother with three children who also has to take care of her 77-year-old mother, said the aid helped to supplement her household expenses.

She hoped that the government would consider providing monthly allowance for single mothers like her.

Meanwhile, Chew Keng Kwun, 61, said the aid, though small to some people, was of great help.

He said used the BR1M money to pay for his utility bills and also buy some household stuff.

Law Shu Ping, 25, a recipient of the BR1M aid for unmarried Malaysians, said she was able to use the money to pay her motorcycle installment, as well as spent some on her parents.

Malaysia rich because of BN - Dr M

IPOH— Barisan Nasional’s (BN) power-sharing concept among the country’s various races has proven to be a winning formula in bringing economic growth, maintaining peace and stability in the country, said former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

“Nobody can deny that this country has developed and become rich because the BN has been able to administer the country well,” he said at a dinner featuring him as the guest of honour here last night.

Dr Mahathir noted that some people believed Malaysia was already a developed country, thanks to all its major races plus those in Sabah and Sarawak, willing to work together for the sake of the country.

Taking a swipe at the opposition parties, which he accused of trying to copy BN’s way of forging an alliance, he said theirs was not a genuine coalition.

Unlike the BN, he said, they contested elections with their own symbols and lacked common ideologies and policies.

“I hope when you vote in this coming general election, please remember that other people may make promises in their manifesto but they say the manifesto is not a promise,” he said.

Dr Mahathir said with 56 years of experience in ruling the country, BN had a good record of bringing about development which could be seen all over the place, including in the field of transportation.

He said Malaysians, too, had honed their business skills to a point where there were billionaires among them.

In Kuala Lumpur, Umno veteran Tan Sri Sanusi Junid lauded caretaker prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s transformation programme for the country and its people adding that Najib was well versed with economic matters.

He was speaking to reporters after meeting about 100 residents of Kampung Kerinchi and their next of kin, yesterday.

(Source: http://www.malaysia-chronicle.com)

Sabah still BN's fixed deposit: Najib

TENOM, April 24 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, continuing his whirlwind tour of Sabah districts on the second day today, said Sabah was still the Barisan Nasional's (BN) "fixed deposit."

Najib, who is also BN chairman, visited Kuala Penyu, Beaufort, Kimanis and Bongawan yesterday.

Bad weather prevented him from flying to Kota Belud but technology saved the day.

He spoke on his telephone to Kota Belud BN candidate Datuk Abdul Rahman Dahlan and his message was amplified for the benefit of the 10,000 people present there.

"Sabah is still the BN's fixed deposit. The 13-member coalition receives overwhelming support, including from people in interior areas," he said.

Najib said the BN government was strong and has the capacity to propel Sabah to greater heights and to balance the development between the state and Peninsular Malaysia.

"Sabah still remains as the BN's fixed deposit. However, if we have a fixed deposit in a bank, once in a while we have to check.

"Yesterday, I went to many places, to Kuala Penyu, Beaufort, Kimanis and Bongawan, but I could not make it to Kota Belud, but I was told 10,000 people were waiting for me there.

GE13: Pursue a healthy, democratic campaign, urges Najib

KOTA KINABALU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has urged all quarters to pursue a healthy campaign for the 13th General Election, following two arson attacks within a spate of 24 hours.

An explosion occurred near the Nibong Tebal Barisan Nasional (BN) election operations room in Penang last night, causing minor leg injury to a man, and this morning, two petrol bombs caused a fire at the BN operations room in Sekinchan, Selangor.

The police, who found two improvised explosive devices at the scene, believed the Nibong Tebal incident was aimed at creating tension in the state.

"Political parties vying for parliamentary and state seats should compete in a healthy manner, in tandem with democratic practices," Najib said on Wednesday, during the second day of a whirlwind visit to Sabah.

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has asked the police to nab the culprits swiftly because voters might worry about coming out to vote or attend ceramahs by political parties.

GE13: Michelle Yeoh stands by her decision to back Najib

Michelle Yeoh greeting Najib at the mega dinner in Klang.

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Michelle Yeoh has defended her decision to openly support Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

She said everyone was free to give their views in Malaysia.

“This is a democratic country and we are free to voice our opinion.

“I believe all of us want to do good for our country.

“I believe they want to do the same thing,” the Ipoh-born actress told Channel News Asia of those who criticised her decision.

The interview was picked up by China Press.

Yeoh openly expressed support for the Prime Minister at a gathering organised by the Federation of Chinese Descendents of Selangor on Saturday.

“We have a leader here who has done so many good things and will do more.

GE13: Pakatan pact set to crumble, says Najib

SHAH ALAM: As the battle for Selangor heats up, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak drew attention to the disarray among Pakatan Rakyat parties.

The Prime Minister and Barisan chairman said their relationship was fragile and set to crumble soon.

"They are even contesting against each other in seven constituencies. Their partnership will not last,” he added at Taman Sri Muda here yesterday.

In his speech before a walkabout, Najib said that sentiment on the ground indicated strong support for Barisan.

He added that the electorate knew the problem when the federal and state governments were on opposite sides.

"One problem (in Selangor) is the water issue which has still not been resolved,” Najib said.

The Pakatan government was more focused on taking over the state's water assets than in ensuring continued water supply, he added.

He said that it was crucial for Barisan to retake Selangor as it is a commercial hub of the nation, and urged people in the Kota Raja parliamentary constituency to vote for the coalition.

GE13: Show of support for BN at Westport

PORT KLANG: More than 60,000 people attended a mammoth gathering with Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak at Westport here in a show of support for Barisan Nasional.

People started making their way to Westport as early as 5pm for the event, leading to massive traffic jams.

Thousands of youths on bikes formed a nearly 10km-long motorcade to welcome Najib at the gathering organised by the Federation of Chinese Descendents of Selangor.

In his speech, the Prime Minister urged Malaysians to reject the Opposition.

He said certain politicians were talking about “ubah” (change) but Malaysians do not want change that will turn a peaceful country to one that is full of conflict and violence.

“Malaysia achieved 5.6% growth last year which is among the highest in the world.

“Do you want to change all the economic success we have achieved?

GE13: Najib in straight fight with PKR man

PEKAN: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak will face PKR supreme council member Fariz Musa in a straight fight for the Pekan parliamentary seat.

This is Najib's eighth election outing including the 1976 by-election where he first stood as a candidate upon the death of his father Tun Razak Hussein.

Fariz, 43, contested and lost in his bid for the Kemaman parliamentary seat in the 2008 polls.

Najib, who is Barisan Nasional chairman, said the election campaign has now gone into full gear and the coalition's candidates should take advantage of the duration to woo voters by explaining Barisan's pledges to the rakyat.

“Tell the people what we have in store for them based on the national transformation programme and our akujanji (pledges),” he said in an interview with TV3 and RTM after his nomination was announced.

GE13: Najib – More growth for Felda schemes under second phase

Najib being greeted by Felda settlers in Chini.

CHINI: The RM22mil complex near here was designed to raise the socio-economic status of Felda settlers and neighbouring residents said Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on Sunday.

"Over the 50-year period from 2006, we have been and will be seeing the fruits of our pledges in every Felda land scheme," he said when opening the complex at the Chini 3 Felda plantation.

Najib said Felda, which had had taken on the role of a land developer under the first phase of transformation, had shifted its focus to grow into an internationally renowned commercial organisation.

He said Felda settlers should realise that not all governments would be able to implement land development programmes like the Barisan Nasional government.

A few countries had tried to emulate Malaysia's land development programme but failed, he said.
Even the PAS-led Kelantan government had been unsuccessful with its so-called People's Estates, he said.

GE13: 50 DAP members praise Barisan for its Indian-friendly manifesto

Former Negri Sembilan DAP Wanita deputy chief K. Sarojadevi sharing a light moment with Rasah Umno deputy chief Mohammed Najeeb Abdullah, after she told a press conference that she was quitting DAP at Senawang Barisan Nasional service centre in Seremban Sunday.

 

SEREMBAN: Some 50 DAP members from various branches in the state have praised Barisan Nasional for its Indian-friendly manifesto.

“We felt that the Barisan manifesto took into consideration the problems faced by the Indians and has outlined policies to help the community.

“But the manifesto of Pakatan Rakyat did not mention a word about the Indians,” said former Negri Sembilan DAP Wanita deputy chief K. Sarojadevi.

Together with some 50 other members from various divisions, the 54-year-old has vowed to quit the party.

“DAP was my life, that I was willing to live and die with, but I am very disappointed with it now.
“I am leaving it with a sad and heavy heart,” said Sarojadevi, who was also the secretary of Taman Tuanku Jaafar branch.

She added the decision of the Registrar of Societies of not recognising the party's central executive committee, plus other issues, had prompted her to make the move.

“This has shown that there were discrepancies in the party and I have no confidence in the leaders,” she told a press conference at Senawang BarisanNasional service center here on Sunday.

But Sarojadevi said, that for the moment, she had no plans to join any other political party, adding she had resigned from all party positions and would quit DAP by this week.

(Source: The Star Online)

Initiatives In BN Manifesto A Boon For Women - Rosmah

PEKAN, April 21 (Bernama) -- Initiatives contained in the Barisan Nasional (BN) manifesto for the 13th General Election (GE13) will help women to be more capable and self-reliant as well create more opportunities to work from home, said the prime minister's wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor.

Rosmah said she felt proud because the government, in the BN manifesto unveiled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak recently, promised to provide more business opportunities to boost women's income.

"The government will also give a bigger emphasis on single mothers and increase the number of women involved in decision-making at the national level.

"I am confident the BN manifesto is proof the government is not sidelining women by giving priority to the interest and welfare of the people as a whole," she said when addressing a gathering at the compound of the Seri Kenangan Residence, here, Sunday.

She said Najib had implemented numerous initiatives in the interests of women in the country who also contribute to economic development.

Rosmah said Najib had never forgotten the contributions of women as builders of happy families, by continuing his commitment to mobilise the agenda of developing and strengthening the group so they would be able to boost productivity and income.

In the meantime, Rosmah urged the people not to be easily influenced by accusations hurled by certain quarters against the prime minister because it was a political agenda to derail his struggle.

She said BN's contributions in 55 years of rule were amply proven via numerous development programmes it implemented and that surely the BN would continue its traditional agenda as the people's champion.

She said BN also had an excellent performance in looking after the welfare of the people, and as such, the people should support BN to continue ruling the nation.

(Source: )Bernama

S'gor residential lease holders to titles automatically renewed: PM

PORT KLANG- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak announced additions to Selangor Barisan Nasional's election manifesto in which all residential lease holders in the state will have their lease titles automatically renewed upon expiry.

He also said there will be discounted premium for lease hold extension for low and medium cost houses.

Najib made the announcement during a record breaking mammoth dinner with 60,000 people at an open space at Westport in Port Klang tonight.

Celebrities such as actress Datuk Michelle Yeoh and badminton champ Datuk Lee Chong Wei were among those present at the event organised by Chinese community NGOs.

Najib also impressed the crowd with his Mandarin words and urged them to give BN a strong mandate and for him to continue being their "shio siang" or prime minister.

He said the BN government is doing much more for the Chinese with its education policies and other matters.

He said the education ministry has set up Sekolah Menengah Chung Hwa in Kuantan, while 71 SJKCs are being relocates to new areas. " one plot of land that was supposed to be for a national school would be used to build SJKC Sungai Long in Kajang instead."

(Source: http://www.malaysia-chronicle.com)

Najib: Judge BN govt on results

PROVEN SUCCESS: We have always put people's interests first, says PM.

 KUALA LUMPUR: PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak yesterday called on the people to decide whether changing the government was necessary to fulfil their needs and interests.

While voters were free to change the government, Najib reminded them that the administration had always put the people's interests first.

"What's important is not what's already in place, but the results.

"The people have to ask themselves whether they need to ubah (change) the government to get their desired outcomes, or stick with the present administration which has already proven that those outcomes can be achieved," he said while launching the Integrated South-Bandar Tasik Selatan Transport Terminal (TBS-BTS) here.

He criticised those who opposed government initiatives aimed at improving the people's lives, such as the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Putrajaya federal administrative centre, the Kuala Lumpur City Centre and Petronas Twin Towers, the Penang Bridge and the North-South Expressway.

Huazong wants Najib's administration to be given fresh mandate

THE Federation of Chinese Associations in Malaysia (Huazong) wants Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's administration to be given a fresh mandate to lead the country to ensure stability and healthy economic growth.
 
Huazong Deputy Secretary General-cum-Chairman of the Strategy Research Committee, Prof Dr Chin Yew Sin, said since Najib took over as Prime Minister in April 2009, he had made bold and innovative changes to ensure Malaysia achieved its vision of becoming a developed and high-income nation by 2020.

He said the significant achievements of the Government Transformation Programme (GTP) and Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) since its introduction, reflected the deep commitment of the Barisan Nasional (BN) administration in achieving the goal.

"We should give them (BN) a chance to continue leading the country as they have a proven track record and deserve to be given the mandate to go on implementing all projects under the ETP," he told Bernama.

Najib Thankful To Mother, Family Members

KUALA LUMPUR -- Despite having a hectic day, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak did not forget to thank his mother, Tun Rahah Mohamad Noah, as well as family members for their support to him.

"Thank you, mother, Tun Rahah Mohd Noah and family members for the support that is inspiring to me," said the prime minister in his Twitter message.

In the message, Najib also shared a picture of him with his mother, wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, as well as children, Nooryana Najwa and Norashman Razak.

Also seen in the picture taken when they were heading to the nomination centre at the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Convention Hall in Pekan, Pahang this morning were Najib's brothers, Datuk Seri Nazir Razak and Datuk Mohamed Nazim Razak.

In another Twitter, Najib also put up a picture showing him with his challenger, Fariz Musa, from Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), using a mobile phone.

He also texted on the picture: "In rivalry, there is friendship and civility. May our journey these next few weeks be smooth."

Najib asks Chinese community to back him

I ask that you continue to support us, so that we can continue the work we've started for the good of the community, and the nation,' he says.

KUALA LUMPUR: Najib Tun Razak said today the support he has received from the people has heartened and encouraged him in the knowledge that the government has done a lot for the Chinese community over the last few years.

“I believe this is especially true on education, where we will continue a RM100 million yearly allocation for the maintenance and upgrading of Chinese schools.

“Normally, having a meal with 60 people would be considered a large dinner. Last night in Westport, Klang, I had the honour of sharing dinner with 60,000 people,” the prime minister said in his Facebook posting.

He also said that bilateral ties with China had never been stronger.

The government had recognised several universities in China and Xiamen University had opened its first overseas campus in the country, he added.

BN wants change too, says Najib

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak told the people in Pekan that “changing the quality of one’s life was more important than changing the government”

PEKAN: Barisan Nasional chairman Najib Tun Razak told Felda settlers here that the ruling coalition was as eager for change as Pakatan Rakyat — but the change BN was seeking was from within.

The caretaker prime minister, who is defending his seat here, said Felda had successfully changed itself from within, and this was proof that the BN-lead government could do the same.

“We in BN also want change. But the difference between us and the opposition is that we want change from within.

“The government has proven through Felda that changes from within is possible,” he told some 2,000 settlers at the launching of theSentuhan Kasih programme here.

He pointed out that under BN, Felda had changed its image into a commercial body able to produce and export a variety of goods to foreign countries.

Malaysian footballers could play for Cardiff City team, says Najib

CHINI: Datuk Seri Najib Razak today spoke of the possibility of Malaysian footballers playing for the Malaysian-owned Cardiff City FC team of Wales which has secured promotion to the English Premier League (EPL) next season.

The prime minister said Malaysian footballers could be allowed to play for the Welsh team to gain experience playing top-level football.

Children of Felda settlers had been sent to Cardiff City for training and we could send them again to Cardiff to enable them play at a higher level, he said when opening the Felda Industrial and Recreational Complex near here.  

In November last year, 50 children of Felda settlers were sent to the Cardiff City Football Academy in Wales for exposure, and they trained with youths of the academy and participated in friendly matches with local teams.

The club, the jersey of which sports the word "Malaysia", is owned by Malaysian tycoon Tan Sri Vincent Tan, and has ended a 51-year wait to play in the top league.

Najib also said that footballers earned lucrative salaries nowadays.

The prime minister said he hoped that Felda United, which played in the local Super League, would be able to win a title in the Malaysia League this season.

In a lighter vein, he said: "Felda has progressed much but not Felda United."
Felda United is second from the bottom in a list of 12 teams playing in the Super League. It has secured only 11 points from 13 matches. -- BERNAMA

(Source: http://www.nst.com.my) 

Najib cites improved public transport as reason to vote BN

KUALA LUMPUR — Pitching for his first personal mandate, Datuk Seri Najib Razak cited today the "stark" improvement in public transportation by his government as a reason to support Barisan Nasional (BN) in the May 5 polls.

The BN chairman said his administration recognised the importance of public transport especially to the lower-income group and made it a key aspect of his National Transformation Policy as proof of his coalition's dedication to serve voters.

The caretaker prime minister (picture) pointed to the construction of the RM570 million Southern Integrated Terminal (TBS) in Bandar Tasik Selatan as one of the many success stories of BN's public transport policies. The terminal was started under his predecessor Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's rule in 2007.

"TBS is an example of the success of the government's National Transformation Policy," he said at the official launch of the terminal.

Najib much better than Anwar — Nanta

KAPIT: Pakatan Rakyat leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim failed miserably during his tenure as deputy prime minister, minister of finance and minister of education, and thus voters should not support Pakatan in the 13th general election.

Kapit incumbent Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi, who said this, advised the people in Kapit not to be hoodwinked by locals singing praises of Anwar and the opposition in blogs and Facebook.

“These people claimed that Anwar is better than Najib (Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak) and that there had been no development in Kapit.

“From what I know, these critics are staying outside Kapit and West Malaysia and thus unaware of what is happening in Kapit even though they claim to be from Kapit.”

Speaking at the Sarawak Rivers’ Board River Safety and Environmental Awareness Programme in Rumah Panjai Nanga Sengkeranji in Sungai Menuan on Saturday, Nanta recalled that Anwar had visited Kapit in 1995 but did not bring any goodies.

“Anwar Ibrahim was once the most powerful man in the country in his capacity as deputy prime minister and minister of finance. He visited Kapit in 1995 but turned a deaf ear to requests for the construction of an access road from Kapit/Song/Sibu.

Najib: A gentleman and big-hearted leader

KUALA LUMPUR: People still perceive Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak as a gentleman and big hearted leader for his courage to openly apologise for the mistakes made by the Barisan Nasional (BN) despite the unfortunate political tsunami which ensued in the 12th General Election (GE12).

Political analyst Dr Chandra Muzaffar said the BN chairman's sincerity in owning up to his mistakes was proof that the party leadership was willing to change itself.

"They (BN leadership) are not only attempting to bring about political change but change within BN itself for the good of all. This approach certainly reflects our culture," he told Bernama.

The political tsunami in GE12 in 2008 resulted in BN losing Penang, Kedah, Selangor and Perak as well as failing to wrest Kelantan while its component parties MCA, Gerakan, MIC and PPP were trounced in parliamentary seats.  

The Prime Minister also apologised to the people of Kedah and Selangor for BN's inadvertent mistakes in strategy which led to their being rejected in the states at the time.

Najib: Opposition offering fantasy list of gimmicks and giveaways

KUALA LUMPUR, April 15 — Datuk Seri Najib Razak has said he is cautiously optimistic his Barisan Nasional (BN) would be returned to power on May 5, while accusing the opposition of gimmickry and plagiarism.

The BN chairman told Singapore’s Straits Times newspaper in remarks published today that he was “cautiously optimistic of a good result in the general election and our ability to form a strong and stable government.”

In an e-mailed response to questions, Najib told the Singapore daily: “Malaysia needs a government with experience and a track record that shows it can deliver on its pledges and handle unexpected challenges.”

In the 2008 election, the BN lost its customary two-thirds majority in Parliament, and lost five states to the opposition pact that would eventually form Pakatan Rakyat (PR).

The poor results led to Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s ouster and Najib’s ascension as PM in 2009.

In his email response to the Singapore newspaper, Najib (picture) also accused PR of copying his BN’s manifesto.

“The opposition manifesto borrows heavily from pre-existing government policies. So any plagiarism is theirs.

“Ours is a costed, targeted set of tangible policies,” he said. “The opposition’s is a fantasy wish list of gimmicks and giveaways that the country can’t afford.”

Najib saddened by Boston Marathon explosions

KUALA LUMPUR:   DATUK Seri Najib Razak yesterday said he was  saddened by the explosions reported during the Boston Marathon on Monday.

The prime minister expressed his sympathy to the victims' families through Twitter.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families," he tweeted.

In the 3pm incident on Monday, three people were killed and 140 injured when two explosions ripped through the crowd at the finish line of the annual marathon.

At least 23,000 people participated in the marathon, held annually on Patriots' Day, the third Monday of April, which is a state holiday in Massachusetts.

No Malaysians were injured. According to Wisma Putra, about 15 Malaysians participated.

"Our consuls in New York and Los Angeles confirmed that thus far, no Malaysians were hurt or injured in the bombing," a spokesman said.

Boustead chief hails Najib's astute stewardship

Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's astute stewardship has guided Malaysia on the path to achieving developed nation status by 2020.

Al-Hadharah Boustead REIT chairman Tan Sri Lodin Wok Kamaruddin hoped that the Barisan Nasional government under the leadership of Najib would be given a fresh mandate in the 13th General Election to lead the country for the next five years as he had done a fantastic job in transforming the Malaysian economy.

"As a corporate entity, we want to see a stable political environment prevailing in the country, strong leadership and the continuity of the various economic programmes by the present government to ensure that the agenda to transform this country to a developed nation status by 2020 can be achieved.

"If possible, not 2020 but earlier than that," he told reporters after the company's annual general meeting here today.

Lodin, who is also deputy chairman and group managing director of Boustead Holdings Bhd, said Najib had also transformed the government-linked companies (GLCs) into regional and global market players.

"Being part of the transformation programme, GLCs including Boustead, have benefitted tremendously from the Economic Transformation Programme and many other initiatives provided by the government.

"The close monitoring by the prime minister himself in ensuring all these programmes are properly being carried out or implemented, are in line with the government's own transformation programme, and I think this augured very well for us and the economy of this country.

"Therefore, we certainly would like to see the continuity of the various transformation programmes taking place under the leadership of Datuk Seri Najib," he added.

(Source: Daily Express)

Najib: 80 per cent new faces in BN line-up for Selangor

SHAH ALAM: The Barisan Nasional (BN) is to field 80 per cent new faces, among them professionals and credible individuals, in Selangor in the 13th General Election, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said yesterday.

Najib, who is Selangor BN chairman, said this was in keeping with the wishes and expectations of the people in the state, and the BN submitted to the wishes and power of the people.

BN RULES!: Serdang MCA parliamentary candidate Yap Pian Hon gives the thumbs-up after receiving the nod to defend his seat from Najib. Yap, the oldest BN candidate in Selangor, will contest the seat for a fourth term.

The candidates were the best transformational line-up to recapture Selangor from the opposition and establish a strong state government, he said before announcing the 22 candidates for parliamentary seats and 56 for state seats in the state, at an event at the Selangor Umno building here.

The BN candidates for Selangor comprise professionals such as lawyers, engineers, accountants and businessmen.

Help local artistes own homes with flexible loan facilities, says Najib

 

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak wants a non-conventional end financing model to be developed for local artistes and those in the creative industry.

By coming up with this model, Najib said artistes or those in the creative industry without stable income nor pay-slips, would still be able to own an affordable home of their own.

"PR1MA chief executive officer (CEO) must do a study on the non-conventional end financing scheme so that our local artistes and those in the creative industry will be able to own a property," he said after meeting the creative and arts industry community at his official residence, Seri Perdana, here.

At the same time, Najib also extends the 1Malaysia privilege card to registered local artistes and those in the creative industry.

There is a total of more than 100,000 registered artistes and those related in the production industry.

(Source: http://www.nst.com.my)

Najib: No community is neglected by BN

PETALING JAYA: Najib Tun Razak said the Barisan Nasional government has ensured that no community, including minority groups, had been neglected.

The prime minister said the government under his administration continued to give equal opportunities to the people to succeed regardless of race or creed.

“Since being appointed as prime minister, I have tried to make sure no community, big or small, is neglected and my presence at this Gurdwara Sahib here today shows that I walk the talk,” he said when attending a Vaisakhi Day celebration at the Sikh temple here.

Accompanying him were his wife Rosmah Mansor, ministers in the Prime Minister’s Department Koh Tsu Koon and G Palanivel as well as the temple’s president, Harbhajan Kaur.

Najib said the success of several individuals from the Sikh community in holding important post in the government, such as Works Ministry secretary-general Himmat Singh, Securities Commission chairman Ranjit Ajit Singh and Kuala Lumpur deputy police chief Amar Singh Ishar Singh was proof that the government did not neglect any race.

The prime minister also said the government had channelled RM21 million in funds to non-governmental organisations (NGO) representing Sikhs nationwide from 2008 until now.

Najib said since he took charge of the government, he and his cabinet members had strived to meet the needs of the community and earn their trust to work together in ensuring the success of national transformation programmes.

“We have established confidence among the Sikh community and I am confident the trust will continue,” he said.

He added the progress and development that the government had brought to the Sikh community had given the community confidence to continue supporting the government.

Najib said this support will result in the strengthening of a plural society as well as the wellbeing of each race.

At the ceremony, Najib also announced an allocation of RM3.8 million to 10 Sikh NGOs including the Malaysian Gurdwara Council, Malaysian Sikh Youth Organisation and the Malaysian Sikh Women Awareness Network Association as well as the Gurdwara Sahibs in Petaling Jaya, Subang and Shah Alam in Selangor and also Bayan Baru in , Penang.

Earlier, Najib, who was attired in in a white and a black songkok, was given a grand welcome upon his arrival. He and wife then were feted to a breakfast of various Sikh traditional delicacies such as samosa, jalebi and barfi.

This is the fifth time Najib celebrated Vaisakhi with the Sikh community.

The first was at the Gurdwara in Kampung Baharu in 2009, followed by Ipoh and Dataran Merdeka last year and the year before.

(Source: Free Malaysia Today)

GE13: Selangor BN will fulfil all promises in manifesto

Standing united: Najib launching the Selangor BN manifesto together with coalition members in Shah Alam.

 

SHAH ALAM: Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has given his word that every promise listed in its manifesto for Selangor will be fulfilled.

Najib said although he would not be contesting in Selangor, he would be personally keeping tabs on development in the state as the Prime Minister and chairman of the coalition.

“If the manifesto is not a promise, then what is the point of presenting the manifesto to the people?

“This document is for a better tomorrow for Selangor. As Prime Minister, I will seriously monitor the progress of the state to ensure that this pledge is fulfilled,” he said.

Among the list of 56 promises, the manifesto pledged to set up an economic corridor similar to Iskandar Malaysia in Johor.

Spanning Port Klang, Kota Raja and KL International Airport in Sepang, it is expected to create 560,000 jobs.

The manifesto also promises to wire up crime hotspots with CCTV cameras, set up day-care centres and give out scholarships.

Najib said there were two verses which reflected Barisan's image “Fulfilling promises” and “Bringing hope”.

Barisan, he added, had fulfilled its promises as the Federal Government and presented a report card of its achievements so that the people could judge for themselves its performance.

“The economy grew rapidly and the wealth of the country has increased at a rate which impressed the world. We feel the pulse of the people. When they faced a high cost of living, we introduced two payments of BRIM (Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia),” he said.

Najib said the Pakatan-led state governments, on the other hand, had failed to fulfil many of the electoral promises made in 2008.

(Source: The Star Online)