“It is a given fact that among PAS supporters, they see Umno’s commitment towards Islam is far greater than Pakatan Harapan.

“I think that’s a given fact,” said Najib, during a visit to the state constituency today.

Umno’s Lokman Noor Adam is standing against PKR’s Zawawi Mughni for the state seat which fell vacant following the death of its incumbent Mat Shuhaimi Shafie on July 2. Another candidate is independent Murthy Krishnasamy.

PAS is staying away from the by-election, saying it was to avoid splitting opposition votes. But the party has stopped short of urging its members to vote for BN.

Najib said it was important that both PAS and Umno look to the future.

“There could be some lingering feelings that we cannot overlook but hopefully people realise that what is important is not the past, it’s the future.

“We must do whatever we can to uphold Islam but at the same time taking into interest the religions of the other communities,” he said.

Earlier, Lokman in an interview with FMT said it was impossible for the former ruling coalition to win in Sungai Kandis without PAS’ backing.

“There is no way I can win if PAS members do not help me. Impossible,” he said, adding that he would meet “friends” from PAS as part of his campaign.

When asked whether Umno would approach PAS, Najib said he was leaving it to party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

“I’m here just to help out whatever I can, to make sure our candidate does well in this election,” he said.

Meanwhile, Najib said he was happy with the reception given to him in Sungai Kandis, despite the police raids and corruption charges against him linked to the 1MDB scandal.

Some 72% of the 50,800 voters in Sungai Kandis are Malays, while Chinese and Indians make up the rest.

The seat, formerly known as Seri Andalas, is part of Kota Raja, the federal constituency won by Amanah president and Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu.

No chance in Sungai Kandis without PAS’ support, says Lokman