The Malaysian Insight

FORMER Selangor menteri besar Abdul Khalid Ibrahim will campaign with PAS and Barisan Nasional in the next general election, but will not defend his seat.

“I will stand with PAS and Umno-BN to fight for the people of Selangor,” said Khalid, who attended the state PAS election machinery’s fundraising high tea in Shah Alam today.

He also shot down claims that he would join Umno.

Yesterday, Malaysiakini reported that Khalid was expected to announce that he was joining Umno today.

“I have said many times that I will not contest in both the state and parliamentary seats in the next general election.

“What is important is that we carry out our duties, and when we reach two terms, we should give opportunities to others,” he said, stressing that there was no reason to join any party since he had no intention to contest.

He said he would cooperate with three former menteris besar and discuss ways to develop Selangor.

“I will also ask my friends from PAS to join, so that we can find ways to develop the state. There is no issue.

“The important issue is not only politics because of politics. We are in politics because of development, and (to ensure) the welfare of and benefits for the people.”

Khalid added that there must be cooperation for the development of the country.

Last month, state Umno liaison chief Noh Omar said three former menteris besar – Muhammad Muhammad Taib, Abu Hassan Omar and Dr Khir Tokyo – would join forces to wrest Selangor from the opposition.

Khalid said PAS was ready to accept all those who supported it, even non-Muslims.

“That is why PAS formed a Gagasan that’s not only for Muslims. This is an important principal that PAS fights for. I accept the fight for all people.”

He said the fight went beyond a particular party.

“When we say a party fights against corruption, but a person who is corrupt is the one talking about fighting against corruption, then, there’s no need to talk about it.” – October 15, 2017.