SUNGAI SIPUT, Nov 14 — PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was greeted like a rock star by some 3,000 people this afternoon when he went on the stump for Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate S. Kesavan in this Perak federal constituency.

Supporters of the PH coalition had gathered as early as 12 noon for a glimpse of the Tambun candidate intent on making Perak the battleground state to launch his career as Malaysia’s next prime minister.

He arrived at 2.30pm and was met with an adoring crowd chanting “reformasi” and “Anwar Ibrahim PM Ke-10”.

In his speech, the Penang-born urged voters to choose an elected representative who can take care of them and not decide based on their personal party, coalition, race or religious preference.

“What has MIC done? Have you ever listened to its president Tan Sri SA Vigneswaran fight the government over price hikes or the high cost of living?

“Then why do you want to vote for him or the party? If you want to choose a leader, choose based on his capabilities to take care of your needs and don’t pick based on party, coalition, race or religion,” he said.

He gave an assurance that Kesavan would do his best to serve Sungai Siput again.

He also asked them to give PH the mandate to rule Putrajaya again.

“This time I want you all to give full majority to PH in Sungai Siput,” he told the crowd.

“Can!” they roared back.

Kesavan is seeking reelection in Sungai Siput, a former MIC stronghold. The PH candidate will be going up against Tan Sri SA Vigneswaraan who is president of the Barisan Nasional’s ethnic Indian component MIC, in this seven-cornered fight

Anwar also went on to stump for PH’s Loh Sze Yee (DAP) who is is defending Jalong in the state seat, and Lintang candidate Za’im Sidqi Zulkifly (PKR).

Perak will hold concurrent state and national polls this Saturday.