My hands were tied, says Bersatu’s Rafiq on supporting M-Wez

MELAKA – Bersatu’s Datuk Mohd Rafiq Naizamohideen claims he had no choice but to support the controversial development of the Melaka Waterfront Economic Zone (M-Wez) previously, as he had to abide by the state government’s decisions.

The party vice-president, who is contesting the Telok Mas seat in the Melaka election under the Perikatan Nasional (PN) banner, said individual stances must not supersede the voice of the majority when it comes to state matters.

“The issue of M-Wez was actually discussed in the state assembly… But if the state government has decided that the majority wants something to happen, then I can’t vote to reject the project.

“At the time, our concept was that we cannot vote against the government, as we are executive councillors.

“What’s more, PN was only the minority, we only had two seats. The two of us couldn’t change decisions.

“If we voted against a bill or enactment, it could be considered as violating government and party’s discipline.

“Action could have been taken against me,” he told a press conference today, which was also aired live on his Facebook.

Rafiq was asked about his apparent change of stance regarding the contentious multibillion ringgit megaproject – why he had supported the development when he was part of the Barisan Nasional-led state government.

In an interview with Malaysiakini on Monday, Rafiq said that PN would review the economic viability of M-Wez if the coalition is given the mandate to lead Melaka.

He served as the chairman of the Industry, Trade and Investment Committee prior to the state government’s collapse last month.

Commenting further, Rafiq said it is important that Melakans give their full support to PN so it may form a new government, allowing the coalition a free hand in making decisions.

“If we dominate the structure of the state government, we can do as we aspire without being tied to views and policies of other political parties.

“We were the minority previously. We only contested in six seats (in 2018). Now, we are contesting 15 of the 28 on offer. If we are given the people’s mandate, we will have a stronger voice.”

Rafiq also denied that PN would cancel M-Wez if it comes to power, clarifying instead that the decision will rely on whether the project’s benefits outweigh its drawbacks.

“If it has a lot of economic benefits for the people of Melaka, including fishermen, we will continue. If not, we will review it. This is a clear stand,” he said. – The Vibes, November 18, 2021