Zahid, who is also deputy prime minister, said this initiative is one of five steps outlined to strengthen BN component parties in gaining the support of the people.
“I believe we have no choice but to field new candidates, particularly from among the youth. The by-elections in Nenggiri and Mahkota recently proved that this hypothesis is true.
“The suitability of a candidate is not only based on their young age, but also on their strong grassroots exposure, which can lead to a decisive victory,” he told a press conference today after officiating the Perak BN convention at a hotel here.
Also present were BN secretary-general Zambry Abdul Kadir; Perak menteri besar Saarani Mohamad, who is also Perak BN chairman; MIC treasurer-general and Perak MIC chairman M Ramasamy; and MCA deputy president Dr Mah Hang Soon, who is also Perak MCA chairman.
Representatives from Pakatan Harapan (PH) were also present. They included Perak Amanah chairman Asmuni Awi, Ipoh Timur MP Howard Lee, who is also Perak DAP treasurer, and Perak PKR chairman Hairul Amir Sabri.
The Umno president cited the example of the Nenggiri by-election last August, where BN succeeded in reclaiming the constituency, having lost the seat in last year’s state polls, by fielding a young candidate.
“We can still win if we implement a game-changer in the area. Similarly, in Mahkota, we proved once again that the hypothesis and the approach were correct. It is not about sidelining the veterans, but ensuring a good combination of the old and the new.
“We were young once and were given opportunities back then. We must provide ample opportunities for young candidates to contest in the polls,” he said.
Earlier, in his speech at the convention, Zahid outlined other measures to strengthen BN, including reinforcing the party machinery, mastering technology such as social media, grooming potential candidates – including members of the Wanita, Puteri and Youth wings – strengthening ties with partners in the unity government, and garnering support from young voters.
Regarding seat negotiations with PH for GE16, the Bagan Datuk MP said parties in the unity government are welcome to provide suggestions. However, he added, the ultimate decision should rest with the top leadership to avoid overlapping claims.
He also said no discussions on the matter have taken place yet, and they are expected to begin once Parliament and state legislative assemblies are dissolved.
At today’s convention, Zahid, who is rural and regional development minister, announced that RM382 million had been allocated for Perak this year and that over RM400 million is expected to be allocated to the state next year.