PETALING JAYA, July 4 — Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) announced today it will kick off its crowdfunding initiative for the state election this Friday by selling the Muar delicacy, "otak-otak”.

The party said its president Syed Saddiq Abdul Rahman, who is also Muar MP, will be leading this first initiative by preparing, cooking and selling the popular Johorean snack.

"Muda is an underdog party, it’s like David and Goliath, an ant fighting the elephant, so we need to be brave to think outside the box with this crowdfunding initiative in collaboration with the people, non-governmental organisations, non-governmental individuals, and also small companies to become the voice of conscience for the people.

"We are not a party that has control of the federal government or any state government, and with that, we need to be brave to look for funds without sacrificing the principles that brought us into politics,” Syed Saddiq told a press conference at the party’s headquarters here.

Dubbed "Muda Hustle”, Syed Saddiq said the initiative will be promoted on social media platforms including TikTok, Facebook and Twitter, and online marketplaces where the sale would be held.

"Otak-otak” is a Muar delicacy made from fish paste and spices, popular with both the Malay and Chinese communities. It can either be wrapped in leaves such as coconut, banana or nipah and then grilled, steamed in bamboo baskets, or used as bread or spring roll fillings.

"To ensure that this is not a ‘Syed Saddiq only’ initiative, the crowdfunding initiative will involve all Muda members, leaders as well as grassroots and the funds will be channelled into the Muda party account,” he said.

"We will also ensure that the crowdfunding initiative does not involve big space rental or expensive equipment, it will be done on a small scale manner in order for us to focus on developing Malaysia and offer a party that will act as a check and balance to Putrajaya and the state governments.”

On June 26, Muda said it will be contesting the upcoming state elections under its own logo.

Syed Saddiq reportedly said the party would use its own strength to bring about a new political narrative in Malaysia.

He also said that the party will adopt a hybrid election campaign method, although most will be conducted online.