Al-Ehsan Islamiah Malaysia President vying as independent

Pertubuhan Kebajikan Al-Ehsan Islamiah Malaysia president Datuk Seri Muhammad Ridzwan Sulaiman is contesting as an independent for the Perai state seat in the May 5 general election.

Muhammad Ridzwan, who was yesterday released from detention under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act for allegedly involved in the armed intrusion in Lahad Datu, said it was his long-harboured desire to contest in this election.

As a Perai-born local boy, Muhammad Ridzwan said he was disappointed with the former assemblyman Dr P. Ramasamy for neglecting development and the people's welfare in the constituency.

"I feel the time has come for the electorate in Perai to have an independent elected representative who is able to fight for their needs and well-being.

"What we have in Perai now is only two Giant shopping malls. Many shoplots are left vacant. The local economic growth is also very slow maybe because Ramasamy was busy with his official duties as the deputy chief minister II," he told reporters at the Penang International Airport in Bayan Lepas Thursday night.

Muhammad Ridzwan, 47, who was detained for 17 days under the Act, was released at the Shah Alam police headquarters yesterday evening. On his brief detention, Muhammad Ridzwan said he offered police the information needed.