ALOR STAR, MALAYSIA - MALAYSIA'S Deputy Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak said his outstanding track record of giving priority to the people cannot be denied.

Stressing that he was neither a weak nor a scared leader, Mr Najib said his achievements reflected his credentials, capabilities and commitment to safeguard the interests of the people.

He said his track record should not be disputed.

"Look at my track record. I am not neglecting the people's interests," he told reporters after a meeting with Kedah Umno division leaders and the state Umno liaison committee here on Wednesday.

'I would not have clinched such high votes in the recent general election if I had disregarded public interest,'

He said this in response to former Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's statement that people were disenchanted with Mr Najib whom they perceive as a weak leader who could not make his own stand.

Mr Najib said PM Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's decision to hand over the mantle to him by June 2010 was made with the consent of the Umno supreme council.

'It was not a decision that was reached between me and Pak Lah (Mr Abdullah) but it was a plan accepted by the Umno supreme council. Transfer of power should be done systematically,' he said.

On Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah's plan to challenge Mr Abdullah for the party president's post, Mr Najib said those vying for the post should have enough support.

On the PAS-Umno talks, Mr Najib said there should be no pre-conditions for the muzakarah (dialogue).

He said such dialogues could be used as a venue to discuss what is best for the country and the people.

Mr Najib said this in response to PAS spiritual adviser Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat's statement that such muzakarah could only be held if the request came from Umno grassroots during the branch and division AGMs.

However, PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang had reportedly expressed interest in discussing with Umno issues related to the Malays and Islam. -- The Stara/ANN.