Thirteen out of 18 branch leaders in Tanjung have come out to openly show their support for Teng Chang Chang Yeow to withdraw his resignation as state BN chief.

Teng, who is former Gerakan secretary-general and also the Tanjong division chief, resigned from his post when BN failed to recapture Penang in the 13th general election.

At the May 5 polls, Teng lost the Bukit Tengah seat to PKR lawyer Ong Chin Wen by about 6,000 votes.

NONE Gerakan state youth chief Oh Tong Keong said Teng should consider retaining the post and gun for the state chairperson’s position as the party needed someone of “outstanding talent”, and one that is supported in the island and mainland.

The branch leaders displayed their support openly at the May Restaurant along Jalan Penang today.

“After the May 5 polls, Gerakan faced a lot of challenges, we suffered defeat and have to think about our future plans to face the 14th general elections,” said Oh, who is Tanjung deputy division chief.

“Although Teng suffered defeat in the just-concluded election as state BN chief, it is not his fault as the people turned their support away from BN due to a big wave,” added the Lebuh Victoria branch chief.

Gerakan is holding its state party election on Sept 15, while the national delegates conference will be held on Oct 25-26.

The state Gerakan Youth chief said most BN supporters and members recognise Teng’s leadership, and agree that he is the most suitable person to lead the party.

He added that the party needed “a new, young and energetic leader who is bold enough to speak out on issues”.

Oh said the 18 branch leaders unanimously supported Teng’s leadership, adding that he hoped other division leaders would also surface to lead the party soon.

Teng: I was mostly travelling overseas

When contacted, Teng said he was unaware about the support group until 6pm yesterday.

He added that he was mostly travelling overseas after May 5, to try to expand his growing business.

When asked if he was behind the group or had lobbied for support, Teng shot back, “I have no time to do that as I was focussing on my business.”

When asked if he would consider the proposal, Teng said he had to also consider the feelings of his business partners.

“I thank my supporters for their gesture and the confidence they have on my leadership. I would have to consider the matter,” he told Malaysiakini.

“Perhaps, when I travel to China soon and feel more relaxed, I will think about my supporters’ proposal. I would still have to consider their feelings,” he added.

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