BUTTERWORTH – The Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition in Penang raised the bar of expectations last night when a senior leader “declared” that it has already won 26 of the 40 state seats despite campaigning for the state election just passing the fourth day.
State PKR vice-chairman Goh Choon Aik told a crowd that based on ground feedback, the coalition has secured 26 seats despite the best efforts of its rivals from Perikatan Nasional (PN), Muda, Parti Rakyat Malaysia and several independents.
If Goh’s prediction comes true, it means that PH has a simple majority out of the 40 seats.
Goh further expanded on his assertion, saying that ten seats remain in grey status while four are listed as black.
“We want the entire national and state machinery to focus on the grey and black constituencies. Turn them white by August 12,” said Goh.
He declined to name the seats but stressed that PH is on course towards victory.
He also cautioned against complacency, saying that PH wants a big victory margin to send a telling message to the rest of the country that the remedy for a country plagued by stifling politicking is the national unity partnership.
“Enough of pitch battles revolving around negative narrative of race or religion.
“Focus on what the people need, which are quality jobs, fighting climate change and social challenges, especially from cyberspace,” Goh said at the unveiling of the Penang PH’s 16-point manifesto in the Penang International Convention Centre in the Butterworth Arena.
Goh urged fence sitters to no longer be swayed by the opposition as they do not offer anything alternative other than the bogeyman of threats against race and religion.
“For the undecided voters, let’s not be confused and trouble ourselves by voting against the mainstream politics that has benefitted Penang immensely. Work with us for a better state.”
At the same event, Penang Barisan Nasional (BN) deputy chairman Shaik Hussein Mydin claimed the opposition has run out of steam to the point of claiming that those attending feasts organised by PH-BN will go to hell.
“I was shocked. I did not even cook the meals. I told the villagers that it is okay…for tomorrow, we will organise a bigger kenduri (feast),” the Sg Dua PH-BN candidate said.
The launch was moderated by Tanjung Bungah PH candidate Zairil Khir Johari.
The manifesto pledges to address all issues related to Penang while also offering new development packages to enhance economic growth here.
Among the promises are addressing the worsening traffic congestion and ensuring that affordable housing is accessible to all. – The Vibes, August 2, 2023
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