UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is throwing his party’s full support behind rival-turned-ally DAP to ensure Penang is not lost to Perikatan Nasional in the August 12 state polls.

Calling Penang caretaker Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow his brother, Zahid said Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN) are committed to ensuring victory in Penang.

Speaking at the launch of the unity pact’s Perpaduan machinery in Seberang Jaya last night, Zahid, who is BN chairman and deputy prime minister, said the Penang Umno machinery promised him it would help Pakatan Harapan in Penang.

“In the case of Penang, we are confident of retaining the state. Even the prime minister has confirmed incumbent chief minister Chow Kon Yeow would be chief minister should the coalition win in the state elections.

“Chow, remember I am your brother. I am going to deliver my assemblymen to you. We would like to have our share of take as well.

“This is not a question of power, but unity. When we are committed, we will implement it with full commitment to strengthen the unity government.

“Chow, this is BN’s first time as a partner. There will be no flip-flopping. When we make promises, we fulfil them. That is our commitment,” he was quoted as saying in The New Straits Times today.

Zahid also said Islam was never threatened under the unity government. 

“(Transport Minister and DAP secretary-general) Anthony Loke sits on my right during cabinet meetings. Never has he raised any anti-Islam issue.

“He (Loke) agrees with whatever the prime minister says,” he said. – July 17, 2023.