Monday 14 February 2011 – Although the BN gained most of the Malay votes in the Johor Tenang state seat by-election, Umno still needs the support of Chinese as Malays would not always support Umno, according to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz.
Nazri said that all Chinese, Malays and Indians are Malaysians and thus, the government or political parties cannot exclude any of the racial groups.
"We are the people's representatives, not Malay representatives. Although some people said that Malay votes have started returning to the BN, no one can actually guarantee what will happen five years later, or who can be sure that Malays will forever support the BN?" he said.
During an interview with the Sin Chew Daily, Nazri said that in fact, no one can completely control Malay votes. Therefore, Umno cannot give up Chinese votes just because they have gained the support of Malays as the situation can change at any time.
"Even though Malays supported us in the Tenang by-election, they might not continue supporting us in the future. Hence, the most proper and safe way is to take into account the votes of all races, which is consistent with the BN spirit of sharing," he said.
The government does not bow to Perkasa
Nazri also stressed that the government has never been afraid of Malay rights group Perkasa. The government also does not compromise to Perkasa by retaining the 30% Bumiputra equity in the New Economic Model (NEM).
He pointed out that it is a continuation of the 1970's New Economic Policy (NEP). The policy has not yet been successful so far and therefore, the government wants to set up the Unit Peneraju Agenda Bumiputera (Teraju) to ensure the implementation of the 30% Bumiputra equity.
He said that the government does not favour any of the races as the other 70% equity is owned by the other races. Moreover, the government does not force non-Bumiputra companies to transfer 30% of equity to Malays. Only companies involving in tendering government projects or preparing to be listed are restrained.
Nazri challenges Anwar to a debate
Nazri also called on PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim not to give ceramah only at night markets but to accept his challenge of a public debate with him if he is a gentleman.
Nazri said that he can have an open debate with Awnar on any current issues and the debate can even be held at Anwar's home.
Nazri said that although Anwar has been suspended from the Parliament for six months, he still receives allowances. It is far more benevolent compared to states ruled by the Pakatan Rakyat as Penang and Selangor state governments do not only suspend BN state assembly members but have also stopped their allowances.
"If Anwar has the guts, he should debate with me at any time and place," Nazri said.