He said the component parties in Pakatan Harapan remained committed to securing victory for the unity government candidates in future elections.

“We accept the Sungai Bakap outcome as the people’s decision. This is not the end of by-elections for any candidate from within the unity government coalition,” he told reporters after opening the Kota Melaka Umno division’s annual meeting.

Zahid reminded Umno members of the need to make changes to win over voters.

“We must remember that politics today is not just about development, but it’s about issues and sentiments that we must champion.

“How many among us are willing to answer and defend our leaders when they are criticised? We only know how to make (certain issues) viral with our friends. In this situation, we must rise and become more aware,” he said.

In the Sungai Bakap by-election, Perikatan Nasional’s candidate Abidin Ismail defeated his PH rival Joohari Ariffin with a majority of 4,267 votes. His victory ensured that the seat remains with PN.

The by-election was held following the death of assemblyman Nor Zamri Latiff, who was Nibong Tebal PAS division chief, on May 24.

Racial and religious hatred

Zahid said racial issues and religious sentiments played up by the opposition were among the factors that led to the defeat of the PH candidate.

The issue of Islam being marginalised under the unity government had also successfully influenced voters in the area, he said.

“The issue raised (by the opposition) is not only a matter of racialism, but also a matter of hatred. We accept that it is their political game. But we are determined to continue working and this is not the end of the road for any candidate of the unity government coalition,” he said.

Zahid said Umno would work to improve itself to face the coming Nenggiri by-election in Kelantan.