GE14 | In a surprise move, Ibrahim Mat Zin, who is known as Raja Bomoh, announced that he will contest as an independent candidate in the Bagan Datuk parliamentary seat in Perak, whose incumbent is none other than caretaker deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Incidentally, Bagan Datuk happens to be one of the largest coconut producers in Malaysia. The shaman often uses coconuts during his rituals.

Ibrahim made his announcement during a press conference in Ipoh this evening. Standing behind him throughout the news conference were three men in vests with their arms crossed.

Yesterday, Berita Harian reported that Ibrahim, who made international news during the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines MH370 in 2014, would contest in the Teluk Intan parliamentary seat.

Ibrahim also said he would not use a single sen from his MP salary and allowances of RM25,500 for the next five years if elected, and promised to disburse it to the people instead.

“I will give the first month to the Malays, the second month to the Chinese, third month to the Indians, fourth month to the 'Bengali' (Punjabis), Christians, Bajau, Kadazandusun Murut in Sabah and Sarawak.

“I don't need a salary, I am famous. Carried two coconuts, and the whole world knows me,” he added.

Ibrahim, who was born in Bagan Datuk but raised in Pasir Salak, said the people had asked him to contest in the election 10 years ago.

“I refused. I said let's see if the new leader can take care of them.

“But now, they complain the economy is not good. Back then, if you went to the market with RM50, you can get two hands full of vegetables and fish.

“Now I see with my own eyes... the kampung people are sad that the price of goods has increased,” he added.

Ibrahim also claimed that there are at least 25,000 voters behind him, comprising his students, close friends and neighbours.

“So I am now forced to contest as an independent,” he added.

The total number of voters in Bagan Datuk during the 2013 general election was about 40,000. Zahid retained the seat with a vote majority of 2,108.