SEREMBAN: Barisan Nasional's incumbent for the Pertang seat has hit back at his critics over allegations that he did not do much for the Chinese community in the constituency.
Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias, who is also state Umno chief, strongly refuted the claims, stating he is fully prepared to provide documented proof of his service and contributions to all his constituents, including the Chinese community.
"I have a report card and can provide you with proof of what has been done for the two Chinese vernacular schools, the new villages, Chinese temples, and the sick and infirm.
"Please do not make wild allegations unless you can back them up," he said.
Citing an example, Jalaluddin said he has given SJKC Simpang Pertang RM144,000 and SJKC Pertang RM44,000 since Aug 2023.
He said allocations were also given to the Simpang Pertang and Sg Lui Chinese new villages to upgrade infrastructure, including the drainage system and lighting.
"Go and visit the Chinese tokong (temple) in Pertang and ask their management what I have done for them," he said.
Jalaluddin, who is also the Jelebu MP, added that he helped raise the problems faced by a Tamil vernacular school, SJKT Ladang Pertang, in Parliament.
The school, he said, was eventually relocated to Simpang Pertang.
He expressed regret that some opponents were resorting to scare tactics to gain voter support.
"The Orang Asli voters are being told if Barisan wins, they will take over their land.
"Others are being told that if Barisan is voted into power, simple things the people enjoyed, such as free monthly school bus fares, will also be stopped," he said.
Jalaluddin will be involved in a three-cornered fight against Pakatan Harapan's Mohd Umry Abdul Khois and Bersatu's Mohd Faizal Fadli Mohd Idrus.
In the last state polls, Jalaluddin won the seat with a 2,790-vote majority.
There are 12,873 voters in the constituency, with the Chinese community making up around 19%.
