Penang Umno recognises the stiff challenge at the next general election but hopes that the people will serve a pleasant surprise.

Liaison committee chairman Zainal Abidin Osman said Umno and BN will not only be up against opposition parties but also the state election machinery.

"If previously the BN government had to fight to remain in power in Penang, Kedah and Selangor, this time we are up against those in power," he told reporters after opening Pekan Puteri Umno division delegates meeting.

Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said yesterday the next general will be the most challenging for BN.

Zainal who is also Umno supreme council member is banking on the people to overthrow the DAP Penang government for practising irresponsible politics.

He said the opposition is hoping for the country to falter thus making it difficult for the people, all for the sake of power.

"They want to see the country's economy collapse and rising price of goods and oil so that people are angry with the government (BN)."

He added Penang Umno is working hard to regain the people's support by holding meet-the-people programmes weekly.

- Bernama