Several politicians have admitted to engaging the services of shamans and employing spells to enhance their careers.

Some seek these bomohs on their own accord while others do it on the behest of their supporters. However, the objective is the same - to win elections.

An Umno politician in Terengganu conceded that he had used the services of a bomoh to help him win the parliamentary seat he contested in the last general election.

The veteran politician, who declined to be named, said he was not convinced about the powers of bomohs but went along with it after being pressured by his supporters.

"I worked hard to win, campaigned night and day...I believe my victory was the will of God," he said when met recently.

Although the payment for the bomoh was rather steep, the politician said he was satisfied because he won a seat which was known to be an opposition stronghold.

However, he remained tightlipped on the name and location of this bomoh as well as the fee charged for his services.

Public knowledge

Meanwhile, an Umno supreme council member's aide also confirmed that using bomohs was a norm among Malaysian politicians.

"This cannot be kept under wraps, it has become public knowledge. Many Umno leaders have their own bomohs.

"I myself had met a bomoh on behalf of my boss to ask for advice and views on his chances for the coming party elections," said the aide on condition of anonymity.

Commenting on the issue, Umno Dungun parliamentarian Rosli Mat Hassan said he had no knowledge of Umno politicians in Terengganu engaging the services of bomohs.

Even if they did, he said this was their personal matter.

"Personally, I don't believe in bomohs and I have never engaged any. I prefer praying," he added.

Part 1: Politics of spells and shamans

Part 2: Politicians seek foreign supernatural boost