PERMATANG PAUH, May 4 – “I will only talk about things that are important.” That was the response from BN’s Permatang Pauh by-election candidate Suhaimi Sabudin when asked to comment on PKR secretary-general Rafizi Ramli ‘s remark on the former’s personality today.
To refute Rafizi ‘s remark, Suhaimi explained that he had been working and serving in politics for long, alluding that it was more important to let work speak for its self without having to talk much. “The most important thing is, we are able to respond when questioned on issues and ways to overcome them.
“I will speak when necessary, especially when it comes to addressing issues. “However, I certainly will not respond where personal issues are concerned. “There is no need to speak unnecessarily as it is better to speak up when the situation calls for it,” he said when met, during his walkabout to meet residents of Taman Baru here today.
The ever smiling father of four is known for his quiet and reserved personality which drew criticism from Rafizi, who said Suhaimi would not make for a good politician due to his bashful and quiet character. Rafizi had earlier today remarked that Suhaimi was too shy to be a by-election candidate, adding that Suhaimi’s voice was difficult to be heard.
Rafizi also said that he had never met such a shy candidate whose only response to anything was just a smile. The Pandan MP also questioned Suhaimi’s ability in addressing serious issues such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Meanwhile, two state Umno chiefs have jumped to Suhaimi’s defence. Selangor Umno Chief Datuk Noh Omar, who was with Suhaimi during his walkabout said it was better to be quiet and shy than to talk nonsense like Rafizi.
Penang Umno Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Zainal Abidin Osman said a good candidate, who makes for a good politician, was someone who could serve the rakyat well, regardless of his personal traits. “What is the use of being vocal, but unable to help the rakyat? “It is better to be shy and able than to be vocal and not perform one’s duties in serving the rakyat,” said Zainal.
