BARISAN Nasional’s candidate in the Cameron Highlands by-election Ramli Mohd Nor can acquire Chinese votes, MCA vice-president Ti Lian Ker said. 

He said this was because they were fed up of being neglected and wanted issues they faced to be heard.

“The Chinese are angry because old problems have not been resolve, and they said its even worse to choose the new government. 

“So, we hope to get their votes,” Ti said at the Brinchang MCA operations centre today. 

Ti said Chinese voters were not particularly concerned about BN’s relationship with PAS as much as local issues brought up during the campaign, including Pakatan Harapan’s unfulfilled promises.

“(BN-PAS ties) are not the focus because this is a democracy, and a democracy is for everyone to participate in. Whatever election it is, any party or individual may campaign. 

“We are focusing on national issues, on PH’s government administration. We are focusing on its unfulfilled election manifesto promises, what PH has not done for them. National and local issues are matters of concern to Chinese voters,” he said.

Ti said although the Chinese in the constituency were aware of BN’s newfound alliance with PAS, they were more concerned about traffic, tolls and land issues.

“We are focusing on local issues. We have notified our state government on the issues, and our Parliament members will work closely with them because traffic is a Pahang government issue.

“Land is also a Pahang government issue, so if the BN candidate is chosen as a parliamentary member, it will be easier because the political will is there to solve the problem.” 

Ramli, meanwhile, said he was feeling positive due to the overwhelming support he has seen in his home town, and was confident of gaining the popular vote with the help of the Indian and Chinese community.

“I felt positive going to my village during the Ceramah Perdana in Sg Koyan yesterday. 

“I believe the Chinese and Indians in Tanah Rata will also support me.” 

Ramli is in a four-way battle for the Cameron Highlands parliamentary seat with PH’s M. Manogaran, and two independent candidates – Wong Seng Yee and Sallehuddin Ab Talib. 

Polling day is on January 26, with early voting tomorrow. – January 21, 2019.