Ridzuan apologizes to BN supporters, seeks new chapter with PN alliance
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Gemas state assemblyman Ridzuan Ahmad apologized to Barisan Nasional (BN) supporters for any past actions that may have offended them.
- He expressed hope that the new cooperation between Perikatan Nasional (PN) and BN will usher in a new era and strengthen grassroots support.
- Ridzuan is confident that the alliance will increase his majority in the upcoming election, building on his previous win.
Ridzuan Ahmad, the incumbent for the Gemas state seat, has extended an apology to Barisan Nasional (BN) supporters, acknowledging that some of his previous actions or stances might have caused offense. He expressed optimism that the recent cooperation between Perikatan Nasional (PN) and BN will pave the way for a fresh start and bolster support at the grassroots level.
"I was formerly with UMNO. So, perhaps some were hurt because previously I contested under the PN ticket, and at that time, we were not yet together with BN," Ridzuan explained. He added, "I apologize to the voters if there were any mistakes or promises I could not fulfill. As a former assemblyman, perhaps some of my actions hurt them, but today we are in a new understanding and bond."
Ridzuan, who is seeking re-election in Gemas, believes that the understanding between PN and BN will translate into strong grassroots support, dismissing the possibility of boycotts from supporters of either coalition. "Alhamdulillah, I am grateful because the blue wave will capture Gemas and the state seats under the Tampin Parliament," he stated. "PN will help BN, BN will help PN."
He recalled winning the Gemas seat in the 2023 Negeri Sembilan state election with a majority of 3,120 votes while representing Bersatu (part of PN). He is now confident that this majority will increase with the support of BN voters. The upcoming state election in Gemas is set for a three-cornered contest, with Ridzuan facing candidates from Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Bersatu.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.