KUALA LUMPUR, May 3 — Former tycoon-turned-statesman Tun Daim Zainuddin started his stump for Pakatan Harapan (PH) two days ago, and he has now offered his prediction for the 14th general election (GE14).
The former finance minister previously delivered virtually accurate predictions for the 2008 and 2013 elections, but in an interview with Chinese daily Nanyang Siang Pau, he said that he is at a loss over who will emerge victorious this time.
But if any coalition were to win, Daim said it would be determined by voters in rural areas — particularly in Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) estates — as well as young voters.
“I don’t think anyone can know who will win. I can only say this is the most important election since Independence.
“Because it involves the future direction of the country. Only voters will know who they’ll support,” he reportedly said.
Daim said it is still uncertain to whom Putrajaya will fall, but it will only take a 10 per cent swing in votes.
There is no need for a so-called “Malay tsunami”, he said.
The veteran politician said PH will be able to retain Penang and Selangor, but could also take Perak and Kedah if the Opposition pact can fulfil certain conditions.
There is also a 50:50 chance of it winning Johor and Sabah, Daim said.
He, however, offered a more pessimistic assessment of Islamist party PAS, which he said would not be a “kingmaker”.
PAS might even lose Kelantan, he predicted. The party has governed the east coast state since 1990.
According to Daim, PH also has a slim chance in Negri Sembilan with an attractive mentri besar candidate, and if Umno does not solve its internal problems.
As for Melaka, he said the Opposition pact would need a strong candidate to defeat BN, as it is still a stronghold for the ruling coalition.
On Tuesday, Daim lent his support to PH candidate for Pendang, Kedah, Wan Saiful Wan Jan, and last night joined a PH ceramah in Lembah Pantai.
