We have been experiencing some problems with subscriber log-ins and apologise for the inconvenience caused. Until we resolve the issues, subscribers need not log in to access ST Digital articles. But a log-in is still required for our PDFs.
PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak last night announced three “good news” for the people if Barisan Nasional (BN) is given a fresh mandate in the 14th General Election.
In a 30-minute speech, delivered at 10pm amid the backdrop of Seri Kenangan — a humble, two-room wooden house here built by his father the late Tun Abdul Razak Hussein — Najib addressed a 4,000-strong crowd, some of whom gathered as early as 7pm.
To a roar of approval, the prime minister announced that if BN was given a new mandate, youths aged 26 and below would be exempted from paying income tax.
“I understand that the youths need money for their expenses, such as buying a car, paying rent as well as to give money to parents. As a government that cares, this marks the first time that this is being done,” he said.
Najib said the income tax exemption would apply to the 2017 assessment year. Those who had paid their taxes last year would receive a full reimbursement.
As for the second good news, Najib announced that a special two-day public holiday would be declared if BN won the election.
The holidays, he said, would fall on Monday (May 14) and Tuesday. For states whose weekends fell on a Friday and Saturday, the special public holidays would fall on Sunday and Monday.
“This would allow Malaysians to spend time with their families as well as make their Hari Raya Aidilfitri preparations.”
His third piece of good news, which drew loud cheers, was on the exemption of toll charges for five days during the Hari Raya holidays.
Najib said all highways would be toll-free two days before Hari Raya Aidilfitri to enable the people to return to their hometowns, as well as on the first three days of the festival.
Najib said these pledges, as well as those made in the BN election manifesto, were proof that the opposition’s claims that Malaysia was a failed or bankrupt nation was untrue.
“A bankrupt or failed nation, as claimed by the opposition, cannot promise all this. We do not need savings, we are a successful nation,” he said.
He also recorded his appreciation to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, other BN leaders and members at all levels for their dedication to BN’s struggle.
He said in the months leading up to the election, he went down to the ground to meet the people and understand their needs and desires.
“This gave me the opportunity to meet the people.
“All the hands I clasped, each face I saw, all these moments hold a special place in my heart.”
Najib said apart from being a leader and prime minister, he was also only human.
“I have feelings and emotions. I’ve been insulted, ridiculed and slandered, but I see it as God’s test and what I have to endure.
“But when I see the faces of the people I’ve met, who told me to not give up, these wounds and scars disappear.
“It is these moments that strengthened my resolve to continue and fight.”
GE14, said Najib, would determine Malaysia’s future. He expressed hope that the people would vote carefully.
“I, Najib Razak, on behalf of BN candidates, humbly ask voters to, without a doubt in their hearts, choose BN, a party which is proven and always keeps its promises.
“For 60 years, we have led this country and effected change after change. If given a new mandate, we will make Malaysia even greater,” he said. Additional reporting by T.N. Alagesh
