KUALA LUMPUR: Perikatan Nasional (PN) is taking the results of the Nenggiri by-election in stride, urging its supporters to keep pushing forward despite the defeat.
PN Chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has urged the coalition to remain steadfast in its struggle despite the loss in the by-election.
"Although we hoped for victory, we accept the decision made by the voters with an open heart. What's important is that we remain committed to our cause, which tests our patience and resilience. The torch of our struggle to defend religion, race, and country will continue to burn brightly," he said in a Facebook statement today.
He also expressed gratitude to all voters in Nenggiri who supported the PN candidate.
"I would also like to thank all PN leaders and volunteers who sacrificed their time, energy, and resources to support the PN campaign in Nenggiri. Your contributions and hard work are greatly appreciated," he added.
In the by-election held yesterday, BN successfully won the seat in Kelantan, with its candidate defeating the PN contender in a head-to-head contest.
BN's candidate, Mohd Azmawi Fikri, 38, officially won with 9,091 votes, defeating PN's Mohd Rizwadi, who received 5,739 votes.
Azmawi, who is also UMNO Kelantan and Gua Musang chief, and is affectionately known as Awie, won with a majority of 3,352 votes.
BN won 17 out of 20 polling districts, while PN secured control over only three.