The Semporna MP said the app was an important means for the party, which is preparing for the 14th general election (GE14), to reach out and gain the people’s support.
“This (Perjuangan Rakyat) is quite crucial for us. It’s not so much about money, but about us needing the support of the people,” Shafie told reporters after launching the app at Warisan’s headquarters here yesterday.
“Money is not a factor to make them vote (for us), but we do realise the importance of having some funds for our oncoming programmes and campaigns.”
He said Warisan was not the only party publicly requesting for funds, and that it was not unlawful for political parties to seek public contributions.
He said many were doing so through fund-raising dinners and other public events.
Those levelling the accusation should look at themselves, he added.
Last week, Sabah Umno deputy information chief Ramlee Marabahan said the app was a ploy to get funds from the public, with Warisan hiding behind the “people’s struggle” slogan.
He said Warisan was actually asking the people to pay for the party’s “struggle”.
However, Shafie said the Umno-led federal government was also focusing on money.
“What is he talking about? Have you seen all the news that comes out on TV3 and TV1 (RTM)? It’s all about BR1M (1Malaysia People’s Aid), it’s all about money,” he said.
He also said Warisan was the first party to come up with such a mobile application, which is available for both Apple and Android operating systems.
“This is one of the more sophisticated, high-tech platforms done by any political party in terms of raising funds.
“It allows people, particularly our supporters, wherever they are to follow us and to make donations.”
All contributions to be audited
Shafie said the party did not have a collection target and that the amount was up to the people’s free will.
“Of course, the more the better. But it doesn’t matter (whether) big or small. By all means if you don’t have money (to spare), we are not forcing.”
He said the contributions would be channelled directly into the party’s bank account, and the total collected would be audited and made public.
“They will see how much the overall contribution is. There’s nothing to hide. But of course, we can’t say who contributed. It (the donations) will go directly to the party and not to any individual account.”
Shafie said the party had come up with the application after people on the ground asked how they could contribute.
“On our campaign trails, many people came to us to ask how they could help. In fact, some of these people donated boxes of mineral water and nasi lemak.
“So we listen to that. The desire of the people at large is that they want to give their full support.”
He said about 300 people had downloaded the app since it was made available early last week.
“Actually, this is the people’s struggle, not Warisan’s struggle. This is your life, your country, your state and your future.
“Opinions including criticism posted through the app will also be considered when Warisan forms the government,” he said.
It’s all about money, Umno mocks new mobile app from Warisan