[UPDATED] Zahid urges leaders to put political differences aside and focus on serving the people

BAGAN DATUK: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on leaders to put aside political differences and prioritise serving the people.

He said the trust and mandate given by the people must be honoured, regardless of political party, religion, or race.

"As politicians, we must not allow divisions among citizens. Whether we win by a large margin or a small one is secondary.

"What truly matters is that, once elected as members of parliament or assemblymen, we must fulfil our duty to serve," he said when opening the RC Hall in Simpang Empat, Hutan Melintang here today.

The hall was built by a businessman from Bagan Datuk, M. Nagaraja, 69, who has been running a cendol business for the past 47 years.

Zahid, who is Bagan Datuk member of Parliament, added that leaders must continue to reach out to the people in their constituencies, including the youth, whether they are working locally or abroad.

Elaborating on Nagaraja, Zahid said he had known him since he was 22.

Zahid also recalled coining the "Raja Cendol" title for Nagaraja during a Hari Raya event about seven years ago, in recognition of his continuous contributions to the community.

He added that the title is still held today as a token of appreciation for his contributions.

After the event, Zahid also took the opportunity to visit his foster family at the Chinese New Year celebration held at Dewan Dato Hj Abdullah Ahmad, which is part of his annual routine.

He was welcomed by his foster family, Beh Song Wan, 62, better known as Bujang, along with his wife, Tian Mee Ping, 56, and their two children.

Zahid also had the chance to toss the "Yee Sang," which had been modified using ingredients from pecal, a traditional Javanese dish, such as boiled kangkung, suhun, tofu, cucumber, and sengkuang, all served with peanut sauce.

He also took the opportunity to mingle with the locals who attended the event.

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