Hubungan Umno-DAP di P Pinang kekal baik, kata Reezal

Umno and DAP relations in Pinang remain stable despite political tension, according to Reezal Merican Naina Merican, the Umno Chief Representative for Kepala Batas. Despite differing viewpoints, the two parties have never been "rancorous," he said. "However, what happened in Johor and Negeri Sembilan will definitely have an impact," he added, referring to the cooperation between Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) during the two PRN elections.

Pakatan Harapan (PH) Pulau Pinang Secretary Chow Kon Yeow stated last Monday that the coalition has not yet decided whether Umno would remain in the subsequent government. Reezal affirmed maintaining a professional working relationship with the state government and Chow's administration, acknowledging BN's decision to end the relationship with PH.

However, he emphasized that the work relationship with fellow unity government allies in Kepala Batas should not be up for debate. "I have spoken with my colleagues here in Kepala Batas, whether they are in BN or our coalition allies within unity government, and told them that regardless of the situation, we want to ensure this close relationship is maintained because ultimately we want to benefit the people here."

Reezal also dismissed claims that BN and PN use identity politics to win the PRN in Negeri Sembilan. He assured that voters are not easily swayed by such tactics and that people desire clear ideology, which BN and PN offer. "In Negeri Sembilan, PAS advocates for Islam. Umno advocates for the interests of Malays. MCA advocates for the interests of Chinese and MIC advocates for the interests of Indians.

There is clarity there. But on the other hand, maybe I am wrong, but DAP, although portrayed as a multi-ethnic party, seems to focus on one ethnicity. Perhaps PKR is seen to focus on one ethnicity as well. Many do not see a clear explanation in these parties," he said.