THE government is more important than any individual, said Prime Minister Najib Razak, adding that without the backing of the party, the individual would never be able to bring development to the country.

“We have succeeded, because of what? Because we are the government and we don’t rely on individuals,” said Najib, referring to his nemesis, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who is said to be influential in Langkawi.

“Yes, we do recognise the contributions of the individual. But, this individual wouldn’t have succeeded if it were not for the strong support of the party,” said Najib, who is also Umno president, during a community programme in Langkawi.

He said Umno, as an institution, should not be shunned as it would continue to champion and protect Malay rights.

“We cannot be based just on one person’s personality. Being personality-centric is no guarantee of the struggle for the future.

“Leaders come and go. However long we may be stay on as leaders, one day, we will go.”

He said as long as there was Umno, the party would continue its struggles for the people.

“All this while, we have been taking care of the welfare of the people by bringing changes. For us to carry out transformation, we will need time. It might take four, five generations.”

Najib also launched two low-cost housing projects in Kuah and Ayer Hangat, worth RM247 million, and the RM9.16 million Kampung Chenang fishermen’s jetty.

Present were Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Minister Noh Omar, Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Shahidan Kassim and Kedah Menteri Besar Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah.

Guests at the event were treated to a lucky draw, where the prizes up for grabs included a car, motorcycles, bicycles and electric appliances.

Resident Hasnah Hassan, 49, said she brought her family to event because of the lucky draw.

“We hope to win the grand prize, which is the car, and we also came to hear the prime minister’s speech,” she told The Malaysian Insight.

Student Amirul Azmi, 18, said he came to the event because he wanted to see Najib.

“I also came for the lucky draw, but I’m not expecting any big prizes. A small hamper would do.”

Another student, Muhamed Alif Abdul Karim, 15, said he attended to see Najib, whom he has never seen before.

“I want to see the prime minister, and I hope to win a motorcycle in the lucky draw, too.” – August 19, 2017.