OLDER-GENERATION Felda settlers in Bukit Goh, Paya Besar, want a change in government, after seeing how badly caretaker prime minister Najib Razak has run the country.

A settler who declined to be named said Felda folk are now more aware of the issues afflicting Malaysia, which have been highlighted by Pakatan Harapan chairman Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

“When Dr Mahathir points out all the issues plaguing the country, people actually listen. After all, he has 22 years of experience governing Malaysia. He knows what is right for the country.”

Dr Mahathir spoke about the 1Malaysia Development Bhd scandal, as well as issues surrounding Felda and Tabung Haji, at an event at the Felda Bukit Goh settlement today, which was attended by some 100 people.

Second-generation settler Saemah Abu Seman said constituents are considering giving Pakatan Harapan a chance, as they have realised the damage done by Najib.

“I was an Umno supporter before, but we have seen how Najib behaves. He causes hardship to the people. He thinks everybody is rich and people live easy. There will be a change here,” the 55-year old told Malaysia Decides.

Paya Besar will see a battle between young candidates Shahar Abdullah, 38, of Barisan Nasional, and 32-year-old Mohd Ashraf Mustaqim Badrul Munir of PH, as well as PAS’ Mohamad Azhar Mohd Noor.

The seat comprises 83% Malays, Chinese (13%) and Indians (2%). Of the total, 60% are below the age of 40.

Third-generation settler Muhammad Kamaredzuan said young voters are leaning towards BN.

“The youth here support BN. Shahar has done a lot for the youth,” he said, citing the building of futsal courts and organising of activities geared towards younger folk as among the BN candidate’s work in the area.

Bersatu’s Ashraf Mustaqim said it will be an uphill task getting young voters’ support.

“I’m working with the older folk. Hopefully, they can convince the younger people. Usually, it is the other way around.”

Dr Mahathir said Felda settlers should punish Najib for his misdeeds, especially those concerning pilgrims’ fund Tabung Haji.

“The money he gives out (in the run-up to) the elections is stolen money. Basically, we are getting our own money back.

“Najib is cheating the people of Felda. He has stolen your money.”

Universiti Malaya Professor Dr Edmund Terence Gomez, who was present today, said despite a projected swing in Malay votes towards the opposition, Pahang will remain under BN control.

“BN is going to win. It will retain power here. There is always the ‘Mahathir impact’, but this can go both ways.

“The older generation has shown support for him, but it is hard to gauge the sentiments of the younger generation.” – May 2, 2018.