KEMAMAN: Kemaman Barisan Nasional nominee Datuk Seri Ahmad Said, in the last mile of his active political career, will use all his experience to bring more progress to Terengganu.
While the firebrand is not alien to the rough and tumble of politics, before, during and after he became the Terengganu menteri besar, a win in the Kemaman parliamentary constituency would allow him more space to present his vision for the state and to fight for the interests of his constituents.
With political and administrative experience on his side, Ahmad said he believes he could deliver the people's wishes for deliberation at the federal level.
He said he now has the opportunity to further develop Kemaman into an industrial and economic hub.
"With more of the younger generation migrating to other industrialised states and seeking jobs in economic sectors not available in Terengganu, it is therefore my job to help create employment.
"Winning this parliamentary seat is crucial for the future of Kemaman. At least, if elected by the people, I will try my best to lay a strong foundation for economic growth.
"At the same time, I am also bound to ensure that Umno remains strong with second echelon leaders that can help propel greater development for the next generation in the constituency," he told the New Straits Times.
In addition, as the state Umno liaison chief, Ahmad said a Barisan Nasional victory in all eight constituencies would ensure a balanced development, especially enabling the party to propose projects to help the rural population.
On his campaign strategy, Ahmad said the people in Kemaman were all aware of his "social work", to help those in need.
"I have always put the rakyat's interests first. My house in Kijal is always open to the people and I will help them in any way I can.
"As a state assemblyman, I put aside political rivalry when dealing with the people because I believe that a personal touch will ultimately be translated into votes."
On his chances of winning the Kemaman parliamentary seat, Ahmad said he, of course, has to be confident.
"It is my first experience (contesting a parliamentary seat), but my status as a state assemblyman helps a lot. And I am getting full support from Barisan Nasional component parties," he added.
Ahmad, who held office as Terengganu's 13th menteri besar from 2008 until 2014, is expected to be in at least a four-cornered fight with Perikatan Nasional's Alias Hamid of Pas, Pakatan Harapan's Hasuni Sudin of PKR and Parti Pejuang Tanah Air's Rosli Ab Ghani for Gerakan Tanah Air.
