NIBONG TEBAL: "We are going to win. InsyaAllah."
This was Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's brief response when asked by newsmen on his outlook for the Sungai Bakap by-election.
The Sungai Bakap by-election sees a straight fight between Pakatan Harapan's Dr Joohari Ariffin and Perikatan Nasional's Abidin Ismail.
Today is the 11th day of campaigning for the Sungai Bakap by-election, slated for July 6.
Earlier, in his speech at the state-level pre-Tahfiz programme at Perda-Tech here, the Umno president said he hoped parents present at the event would give their fullest support to Joohari, the unity government's candidate, to win in the by-election.
"We also hope that Joohari will continue with the services, just like the neighbouring Sungai Acheh state seat, helmed by Rashidi Zinol (from the state unity government)," he added.
Zahid said many accusations and much slander were hurled during the campaign period.
Asked how Umno intends to bring in young voters to the unity government following sentiments that it was only the older generation who were behind the pact, he said there were numerous methods taken by the party.
"Umno members who are voters in Sungai Bakap number 5,105. And this is the focus of our election machinery from Umno and Barisan Nasional.
"And for the young voters, there are numerous programmes which have been implemented.
"They might have an opposing sentiment, but when the right methods are taken which are suited to their needs, they will vote for the unity government candidate," he said.