State holiday in Pahang, but no rest for candidates

KUANTAN: It was a state holiday in Pahang, but none of the candidates took the day off as they embarked on a final push before polling day.

As it was Hari Hol, candidates on both sides of the divide took the opportunity to meet voters at public gathering places.

Hari Hol is a day of remembrance of the passing of Sultan Abu Bakar, the father of the current Pahang Ruler Sultan Ahmad Shah. It is observed on May 7 every year.

Barisan Nasional’s Semambu state candidate Quek Tai Seong went on walkabouts at public spots to persuade voters who were still on the fence.

“I could see that many voters were out today, so I just wanted to send a message to the people that if they want to have a better life, they should vote for Barisan.

“We are also looking for unsure voters and will try to persuade them to vote for us,” he said here yesterday.

For his PKR opponent Lee Chean Chung, it was a good chance to mingle with voters in parks and coffeeshops.

“We targeted places where families gather during public holidays to distribute flyers and talk to voters.

“Most of the voters have already decided who they want to vote for, but we just want to remind them that we want to abolish the Goods and Services Tax and create more jobs, and that Pakatan Harapan is the most viable choice for them,” he said.

Parti Amanah Negara’s Zulkifli Mohamed, who is contesting the Beserah state seat, said his campaign schedule was more or less the same as any working day.

“Even though it is Hari Hol, we are continuing with our walkabouts along Jalan Beserah, the mosque and the fish market.

“With less than 48 hours to go, I’m going down to meet with voters and remind them why they should vote for us,” said Zulkifli.

Elsewhere in Pahang, Barisan candidates all had packed schedules on the holiday.

Barisan’s Lipis candidate Datuk Abdul Rahman Mohamad held six ceramah besides meeting with the people throughout the day, while Ketari candidate Datuk Lau Hoi Keong conducted house-to-house canvassing in four locations.