The UMNO Youth feels that Barisan Nasional (BN) need not necessarily contest in the by-election for the Chempaka state seat(BN), but to  focus on flood rehabilitation process in Kelantan.

Its leader, Khairy Jamaluddin, said there was a need for close cooperation between the federal and state governments to facilitate the smooth post-flood process.

The close cooperation could be hampered if BN were to contest in Chempaka, he told reporters after the opening of the ‘Walk-A-Run’ carnival at the Water Sports Centre here today.

The carnival, organised by Tunku Kurshiah College Old Girls Association, was opened by the Prime Minister’s wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor.

Yesterday, Kelantan Umno Liaison chairman Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed said he personally felt that BN may not necessarily contest in the by-election for the Chempaka state seat.

“Usually, whenever there is an election there will be conflicts, disputes, security issues. My personal opinion is that we should avoid splits and disputes, we should focus on the post-flood rehabilitation efforts,” he added.

On the carnival, Khairy said it was an effort to raise funds to rehabilitate the college’s field at Bandar Enstek.

Earlier, Tunku Kurshiah College Old Girls Association president Tan Sri Dr Rafiah Salim said the college needed RM500,000 for the purpose. — Bernama