Umno veep Mohd Ali Rustam sees the coming by-election in the Batu Talam state constituency in Pahang as a test of the strength of Umno and the Barisan Nasional in facing the next general election.

The by-election, polling for which is on Jan 28, is not to be taken lightly, he told Bernama in Seremban last night. Nomination is on Jan 16.

"Therefore, let us go down to the ground in Raub to ensure victory for the BN, whoever the candidate may be," he said.

The Malacca chief minister also called for the drawing up of strategies now to ensure a victory for the BN.

He said Umno divisional and branch leaders throughout the country should get members and supporters to register as voters, saying that party strength must be translated to victory in the elections.

Must be accepted

Over in Kuantan, Pahang Menteri Besar Adnan Yaakob told Bernama that young professionals are among the seven people shortlisted to be the BN candidate.

Adnan, who also heads the Pahang Umno liaison committee, said the names would be presented to Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi soon.

"The two aspects necessary for the chosen candidate are the willingness to serve the people and his acceptance by the people and electorate," he said.