I have my parents' blessings to contest for Umno VP post -- Mukhriz

Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Mukhriz Tun Dr Mahathir said that he had his parents' blessings to contest for one of the three Umno vice-president seats at the party election next month.

"I have met with them and my dad (Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad) left it to me to make the final decision, but he did give his advice and opinion based on his experience in contesting for the vice-president post.

"However, this year's election will be decided by 146,500 delegates. No more nomination system. There's a big different between his (Tun Dr Mahathir) time and the current situation," he said.

Mukhriz, who is Kedah Umno Liaison Committee chairman, was met at the ceremony to introduce Jerlun Umno candidates for the divisional elections at Wisma Umno Jerlun, 30km from here today.

Apart from Mukhriz, former Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam and Felda chairman Tan Sri Isa Samad are also vying for the Umno vice-president post, while the three incumbents - Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein - have made it clear that they will defend their seats.

Mukhriz said if he won the contest and joined the other two vice-presidents, they would definitely had something to offer to the party based on their experience in solving people's problems at the grass roots.

"It's not about policy or policy-making, but it's a responsibility to solve the people's problems, as well as poverty and employment issues depending on financial ability, human capital and the many aspects that have to be taken into account.

"In this aspect, my experience as a Menteri Besar, although only four months, is really needed at the central level. I'm confident that I can contribute by sharing my opinions and experience because I have came across many situations that demanded immediate decision," he added.