Day before yesterday, we attended a ceramah in Trong.
My estimate of the crowd : about 2,000 – 2,500.
Mostly Malay, and, it seemed, diehard PAS supporters.
We’d actually gone there, having learnt that Tok Guru Nik Aziz was due to speak there, together with Nizar and speaker Sivakumar.
And Nik Aziz didn’t disappoint.
As he did in Kuala Terengganu, he emphasised again that we are all, Malay, Chinese, Indian, the Orang Asli, all of us, the progeny of Adam.
There was no basis in Islam to make distinction between us based on our ethnicity, he stressed.
Really, you can’t help but forgive this man for some of his eccentric utterances in the past when he comes out with decrees like this.
However, the speaker who left me momentarily speechless was someone I had not even heard of until last night.
Surianarayanan is the chairman of the Perak Kelab Penyokong PAS.
He informed the audience, in a most laid back style, that he had gone to the ground to assess the support level for Nizar from the non-Malay voters of Bukit Gantang.
The Chinese support level, he said, was strong, hovering at about 80%.
He then apologised that the Indian level of support was lower, at about 75%.
What he then revealed stunned me.
Nationwide, he said, the Kelab Penyokong PAS had about 83,000 members.
In Perak, the members numbered a little over 18,300.
All non- Malay and non-Muslim.
Hen then proceeded to invite any UMNO, MIC or MCA member in the audience to ‘taubat’ and to join any one of the Pakatan parties.
Why?
Suria put it this way, in fluent Malay, which I have attempted to translate below :
“All that is good is from God; the evil that we see in our land is all wrought by UMNO”.
The crowd roared their approval.
When I spoke to him later, he explained that the Perak chapter of the Kelab started around 2007 and the membership had grown steadily.
He also emphasised that he was confident that the support from the non-Malay community would be reflected in the pattern of voting on polling day on Tuesday.
5 years ago, this would have been unheard of.
Then, even if non-Malay voters we so thoroughly disenchanted with the BN candidate, it seemed unthinkable for them to give their vote instead to a PAS candidate.
Hell, if you’d told me 2 years ago that I’d be throwing my weight behind a PAS candidate in the future, I’d have said you were talking silly.
Yet, I just shook Nizar’s hand a little while ago, after listening to him speak, and wished him all the best.
It once used to be that PAS drove voters into the arms of BN, however much they despised the latter.
Things have changed.
It’s UMNO, now, that’s sending the non-Malays in droves into the welcoming arms of PAS.
And this will translate into votes on 7th April.
kinta kid
April 6, 2009
..my exact sentiments when i encountered this Kelab Penyokong PAS last Thursday April 2…( pls view my blog..)
kk.
John Q
April 6, 2009
Yep…In God we trust….nothing else matters…..
shar101
April 6, 2009
While the PAS supporters club is alive and growing larger by the day, UMNO’s dead cum phantom supporters club is being ‘unearthed’ –
mike
April 6, 2009
yes get umno out as soon as possible before they do any more damage to the rayat.
rakyat Johor
April 6, 2009
Indians are you still thinking of throwing your votes to MIC? Act wisely and don’t be carried away with samy velu’s campaign. He is trapping the indians again. We don’t have hindraf to act as the mouse to bite off the trap and save the indians.
Francis Xavier
April 6, 2009
Nik Aziz nearly died a few years ago. He came back from the dead to teach us how to live
SamYap
April 6, 2009
I hope and pray that its so. But what troubles me is that I heard reports about the Malay ground shifting to UMNO in the past 24 hours. I don’t have any means to verify the reports so I have to take it per se. I guess the racial division still runs deep within sections of the Malay population. And we know who to blame, don’t we? Its their style, whatever shit they may say about “unity in diversity”. UMNO will never give up the racial divisive policy, if they do, they’d die instantly.
Antares
April 6, 2009
🙂 A memorable party at the Cherry Inn! Good health to you, Sir Haris!
sick&tired
April 6, 2009
SamYap, its all propaganda from the BN government. I thought initially HINDRAF has basically abandoned PR in Bukit Selambau, but when I attended the ceramah (which Anwar was suppose to make a big announcement), there was a HINDRAF speaker (not sure what his name is, but he is some big shot in Hindraf Kedah), and he said Hindraf is 100% behind PR.
Same thing about the Malay’s shifting to umNO! It’s all propaganda! My advice is to stop reading the newspapers & TV (I haven’t watched Malaysian news on TV for a long time!) and also a blog from a sellout called Rocky!
I think PR will win in the 2 Bukits, but Batang Ai is going to be difficult. Nvm la, we let BN keep the batang (so that they can suck on it!) whereas PR will keep to 2 “bukits”, if u know what I mean 😉
bilabenar
April 6, 2009
i am one of the few chinese in KT that is a diehart PAS supporter.Please vote for PAS in BUKIT GANTANG as we did in KT.TQ
PeoplePower
April 6, 2009
To PR Supporters,
Rule No 1, we should always not to be over confident!
Keep up the good work! The victory will be with us on 7/4/09 for the 3 by election.
T. Omar
April 6, 2009
Thank you bro for the update. Went for the penamaan calun, (Bkt Gantang) came late, no place to park. One old Haji and I decided to walk. Got lump in my troat seeing the unity at ‘ground zero’. Yes bro, two years ago its unthinkable.
Lis LQ
April 6, 2009
I am Praying for wins in all the 3. If Batang AI win by a 1 maj is already a win for PR.
My greatest WISH in my life is to meet Tok Guru in person,kiss his hand for his Blessings.To me,he is the Greatest Man on earth,he should be the PM of Malaysia. He is adil,he is penyayang to all Anak Bangsa Malaysia,erespective of which religion you belong to.
Long live Tok Guru Nik Aziz.
Malaysian Wannabe Again
April 6, 2009
I shed tears of joy and my spirit lifted as I read and hear of the evolution of change coming to Malaysia. Each day come closer to fulfilling my dream of returning “home” again for good.
To Haris and his team of Barisan Bloggers, good health and many thanks for your undying commitment of uniting all of us under the Anak2 Bangsa Malaysia flag.
Parameswara
April 6, 2009
Long Live Tok Guru. Vote for PR in the 3 PRK please!
mat t
April 6, 2009
See bro what Tok guru is all about,to me he is really a man of god.
v
April 6, 2009
Many people are concerned Najib-UMNO-BN is gaining ground in the bye-elections. Fact is UMNO have been arm-twisting e-portals like Malaysian Insicder and Malaysiakini to spin for them. Just a cursory glance at the index of articles and the headlines indicate that these e-portals are being “forced” to do what the mainstream newspapers like the Star and the Sun had to do : Headline in favour of UMNO_BN while casting aspersions on, or Pakatan Rakyat parties in negative lght; half-truths reporting; insertion of misleading words, statements, or outright lies; omitting articles or facts in favour of Pakatan; censoring or preventing from being published, comments and opinions that may not be to the advantage of UMNO-BN, or wholesale censoring of anti-UMNO comments; etc., etc…
No doubt about it, UMNO is muscling into the e-portals’ newspapers. Witness also the Rm 1 million fine imposed on RPK. The repression has already stated for some time in case many of the readers are not aware. Look at the big picture. UMNO is trying to control again what people think and how should view UMNO and the opposition.
Even if bloggers are quietly stifled, the rakyat should have spine strong enough to be masters of their own destiny by ensuring registration of their protest by voting against UMNO-BN these coming few days or in 2013. UMNO will NOT, and NEVER change!
williem lim
April 6, 2009
Few years ago, I would have said “Over my dead body!” if I were to ask to vote for PAS. But now I would kill myself first if I were to ask to vote for UMNO.
Mr Haris, you truly understand the ground sentiments. It is not a big surprise if PR wins all 3.
Patrick
April 6, 2009
I am a chinese who always vote for PAS. We need to keep our aim to establish Pakatan Rakyat coalition as formible Party which will serve the nation in near Future, beside BN.
The people of Bukit Gantang & Selambu and Batang Ai must understand the national agenda so that Malaysia will have TWO Strong and capable Coalitions to take turn in serving the People and administrating the nation.
Don`t lose heart and Vote for our children’s future. Vote for Pakatan Rakyat.
wandererAUS
April 6, 2009
In today Malaysia political landscape, the situation has changed. 25 years ago, it is unheard BN supporters defecting to the opposition and in big numbers!…we see the change coming.
As a Chinese I no longer fear or suspicious of PAS. I will not hesitate to give my vote to PAS anytime and any place.
When PR takes over the Federal govt, I SHALL RETURN!
Malaysian
April 6, 2009
A lot of non muslims started to support PAS because of Nizar. He’s the sort of leader we need to lead Malaysia. I see big potential in this man.
As for UMNO more and more dirty underhand tactics seem to be associated with its name. I do not see this party lasting very long.
malayamuda
April 6, 2009
how many were not clapping when Mahathir spoke today ? they looked like curios onlookers who stop by to see an accident on the road to me ??!!
Asianeconomies
April 6, 2009
God works in unknown ways. Deep in my heart, I wish that PR will win the three states.
What is God’s plan for Msia under the new PM Najib? Will he be under pressure to reform or maintain a tight grip on the status quo?
Tonight, I’ll pray that the the best party with the best leaders will win in line with God’s future plan for this beatiful and mighty nation.
Msia is beatiful because it is the nation beloved by God for its racial harmony despite government-sponsored racism. It is mighty because the dramatic political upheavals and elections have been broadly peaceful with no bloodshed.
tean
April 6, 2009
Sir Haris my friend,
I just want to thank you and all for the sacrifice to make this country a better place for our children.
When Pakatan take over the Federal you and RPK must be given the most honourable title, Tun.
I am not a fan of those title though.
Who was she, the latest Tun 3 years ago? How she get her title? Whom she stroke and where?. That is the fastest route to Tunship.
Phua Kai Lit
April 6, 2009
Pakatan Rakyat unites.
Barisan Nasional (and especially UMNO) divides.
The choice is clear.
Bersekutu Bertambah Mutu!
chomelwangi & hubby
April 6, 2009
I pray to ALLAH that PKR will win the 3 states. Ya Allah please help us.
Beetle
April 6, 2009
For the past 50 years the ruling umno/bn have stole from the rakyat and now corruption have sunk into every government instituition.
Unless we change the umno/bn government,there is no more hope for Malaysia.
Look at the life style of every leaders from bn and you will know they have amass their wealth through corruption.
Please for the love of our next generation,let’s come together to boot out the corrupt umno/bn.
Blue Boy
April 6, 2009
Haris,
I think 2-1 for PR is more realistic.
Batang Ai is going to be an uphill battle for PR.
williem
April 6, 2009
Hi Chomelwangi&hubby and WandererAUS,
Glad to read your postings and hope you will be back to our beloved country. PR loves you all.
ABIL
April 6, 2009
There is huge non-malay, non-muslim support for PAS. PAS is for all. a slogan that is accepted by Indians and makkal Sakthi supporters. I was amazed when Tok Guru was invited by Penyokong PAS to Rinching, Selangor some months ago. Tok Guru and his entourage was garlanded and accompanied by indian drummers to the stage. 40% of audiance were indians. This level of support was unheard of. People no longer beleive in UMNO’s propaganda. People have learn to repect each other, It was UMNO’s divide and rule tactic that made our brothers suspect each other. I hope the Malaysians are matured enough to see thro the ploys of our great patriach, who has come to save a sinking ship.
ahila
April 6, 2009
Pakatan Rakyat must defeat BN to 3-0.
That’ll break the newly crowned PMs face and his old tune Tun.We at N25 are all out doing our best for PKR…and leaving the rest at God’s Feet!
We want Justice !
hanisma
April 6, 2009
I’ve been Mahathir’s fanatic even before he became the PM. But now, my heart and soul have gone to Tok Guru Nik Aziz and I thank Allah for having shown me the right path. His actions and words are divine and I feel guilty because I was ignorant of his mission and struggle just because earlier I was blinded by the Umno’s ideology. Maturity and wisdom have changed my perceptions and I discover that Umno/BN is the root of all evils. I hope to meet TGNA in person one day and to seek forgiveness for misconstruing him and had been an ally of the wicked demon, Umno/BN!
ktteokt
April 6, 2009
I think the problem began with UMNO declaring two separate sets of Islamic rules, one for UMNO and the other for PAS! So to say, are there to HOLY AL’QURANS in the world? What is the difference between UMNO Islam and PAS Islam?
flyer168
April 7, 2009
Haris,
Thank you & the Special Bloggers Team for your time, effort, sacrifices & great campaigning work.
Well, well, what is new in this Bolehland?
After all that is said & done….
It might be 50:50 for all the 3 bye-elections….
UMNO/BN have always chosen the easier way of “Gutter Politics” & the “Law of the Jungle”….
Intimidation & hard to refuse Parting Gifts(Political, Business Goodies!) at this nation’s & taxpayer’s expense….
This great nation & its Leaders COULD have gone either of 2 ways….
The Honourable Westminster style of Democracy with the Rule of Law requiring the formation of the RCI prior to the appointment/s.
That would make this great Nation, its King, its Leaders & its Rayaat proud of its Integrity, Transparency & Honour….
Or the easier way of “Gutter Politics” & the “Law of the Jungle”….
Intimidation & hard to refuse Parting Gifts Political, Business Goodies!)
Najib’s & his Muslim Hadhari UMNO/BN Ketuanan Beggars are at it again….
Either “Heads I Win, Tail YOU Lose” or else my late father’s “Recommended Potion” will be the order of the day….Guaranteed to work!
Remember “What goes round, will come round to “Haunt” these Desperate UMNO Ketuanan Beggars”
Divine Intervention Works Wonders to accelerate their “Self Destruct Implosion.”
Let us ALL Pray to God Almighty in our own way & faith for “SANITY, Human Rights, Justice, Equality, Freedom & Peace to “Prevail” over “EVIL”
Cheers.
Pasman
April 8, 2009
Syabas Pas! Soon i hope all malays will see PAS ideology and become members! and UMNO disappears. With Indian and Chinese supporting PAS. We will have a new era for a just fair god fearing non corrupt party. At next election PAS/DAP/PKR wins with now majority PAS instead of currently UMNO (because No malays will be in UMNO!) Thank you Malaysians. Go Go PAS