Shafie refutes projection of 'Malay Tsunami'

UMNO vice-president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal Tuesday expressed confidence with the strong Malay support for Barisan Nasional (BN) and refuted the prediction that a 'Malay Tsunami' will occur in the Permatang Pauh and Rompin by-elections.

He said the collective voices supporting UMNO and BN were demonstrated by the Malay community during the party's machinery campaign in both constituencies.

"I went there (Rompin) for three days, Insya-Allah, the Malays including those in villages have their support for UMNO and BN. I know some of their problems and applications are still unsolved, that's why we will continue to help them," he said.

He said this to reporters after handing over the cost of living allowance to Felcra Berhad replanting project participants in Rompin.

Mohd Shafie was commenting on former Information Minister Tan Sri Zainuddin Maidin's prediction that UMNO and BN might face a Malay Tsunami in the next general election.

Zainuddin through a post on his blog Monday, claimed that the results of the impending by-elections would indicate whether or nor there would be a Malay Tsunami in the 14th general election.

Mohd Shafie, who is also Rural and Regional Development (KKLW) Minister, advised Rompin voters to be wise in making comparison between BN and PAS administrations' successes before casting their votes on May 5.

"They (voters) have to know what BN government has been doing for the people and should do not be duped by issues raised by the opposition to gain vote, such as on the FELDA Global Ventures Holdings Berhad (FGV) shares and Goods and Services Tax (GST) implementation.

Meanwhile, UMNO Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob described the opposition criticisms on BN government as a plot to cover their weaknesses.

"They are only good at sweet talking. They intentionally undermine the government so that people will not ponder the about their imperfections.

"Let's not fall prey to their tricks," the Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister said when officiating the 'Road to Pahang Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen Day' programme in Rompin.

Also present, Pahang Rural Development, Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Committee chairman Datuk Shafik Fauzan Sharif and Bukit Ibam State Assemblyman, Datuk Wan Kadri Wan Mahusain.