Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim declared PAS' slim 65-vote victory at Manek Urai as "still a win", saying that the opposition coalition has won every by-election in the peninsula since the 2008 general election.

Speaking outside the Kuala Lumpur High Court today ahead of the start of the sodomy trial, Anwar said that "although by-elections are tough on the opposition, our candidate still won despite attacks and the RM150 million development fund" promised by Barisan Nasional to the small constituency.

NONE "The point is, we have won all the by-elections in Peninsular Malaysia," said Anwar (left) .

PAS' Mohd Fauzi Abdullah polled 5,348 votes against BN's Tun Aziz Tuan Mat who got 5,283 votes in yesterday's by-election.

Pakatan Rakyat has won all by-elections held for parliamentary seats - Permatang Pauh, Kuala Terengganu and Bukit Gantang - and the state seats of Bukit Selambau, Penanti and Manek Urai. It only lost to BN in the Batang Ai state seat in Sarawak.

"Umno cannot resurrect any more... they are only left with nyawa-nyawa ikan (like a fish out of water)," added Anwar.

However, he cautioned that Pakatan is being bogged down by what he calls "perception issues". The coalition's leadership council is meeting on Friday to discuss the matter.

"Although the relationship of the leadership is still very good, issues such as the pig abattoir controversy in Alor Setar, the Kampung Buah Pala land tussle, and (calls to reshuffle) the Selangor executive council (have caused) a change of perception," said Anwar.

‘Anxiety at grassroots level'

Apart from blaming the media for "exploiting the issues", Anwar said the "rancorous exchanges that have resulted in anxiety at grassroots level" needs to addressed.

He also urged Pakatan politicians to raise problems and criticism at the proper forum.

"I have given general advice to PKR leaders to use appropriate forums to (highlight) their criticism... we will consider all views but we appeal to them to do it through proper channels," said Anwar.

NONE Asked about the possibility of snap elections being called next year, Anwar said there is no saying what will happen. Premier Najib Abdul Razak has dismissed the speculation.

"We are prepared to take over the federal government," said Anwar, despite the premier's recent "11 goodies" announcement to ease the people's burden.

Selangor Menteri Besar Khalid Ibrahim, who also made an appearance at the court, expressed similar sentiments, adding that he is "delighted" with the PAS win.

"Having contested in the by-election in Ijok (in 2007), I think the victory by PAS is a real one," said Khalid.