PENDANG, April 27 ― Barisan Nasional's (BN) Pendang parliamentary candidate Datuk Othman Abdul has reminded the coalition's election machinery not to underestimate or make fun of Opposition candidates campaigning in the federal and two state constituencies.

Speaking at the introduction of BN candidates for the 14th general election and the party machinery's election briefing yesterday, Othman added that party members must also support all three BN's candidate if they wish to achieve a "3-0 victory”.

"Our battle will not be easy and I ask you not to look down and underestimate our opponent. Don't call him a midget from an unknown party,” said Othman referring to Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia's (PPBM) candidate Wan Saiful Wan Jan.

"We must contest against him as if he's a strong veteran, like when we fought against Mat Sabu and we won. Remember back in 1990 when we defeated then PAS president? Don't underestimate and make fun of our opponent,” he added, referring Mohamad Sabu, now in Parti Amanah Negara.

Pendang Umno division chief Datuk Md Rozai Shafian echoed Othman's words adding that the party's machinery might become overconfident if they underestimate and look down on the PPBM newcomer.

Md Rozai was very confident of the Pendang incumbent's capability in defending his seat, pointing out that the people of Pendang will not accept outsiders.

"I don't want to sound overconfident but the people here have always preferred a local. They're not comfortable with someone who lives in Kuala Lumpur and cannot relate to them. They prefer someone they can see on a daily basis.

"The voters here want someone who attends their kenduri, look into them when there's a death in the family, someone who is down to earth and Othman has all these characteristics,” Md Rozai said, describing Othman to reporters.

The event saw roughly 400 BN members and supporters who volunteered to work during the elections. Spirit among the volunteers were very high. When each candidate were introduced the throng roared their approval and cheered them on.

State seat Sungai Tiang will see Umno incumbent Datuk Suraya Yaacob being challenged by PPBM's Abdul Razak Khamis.

Tokai will see local boy Ahmad Fatahi Omar doing his best to take down the PAS stronghold which will defended by Datuk Mohd Hayati Othman instead of incumbent Mohamed Taulan Mat Rasul.