KUALA LUMPUR: "My retirement from politics is exceptional," said Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman, the incumbent member of parliament for Labuan.

The two-term parliamentary representative had indicated to Federal Territories Umno chairman Datuk Zulhasnan Rafique last month that if his wife was still in a coma nearing the election, he would not re-contest.

"I cannot concentrate on an election campaign. I need to be near my ailing wife.

"She is in a coma. I do not want to live with regret if something were to happen to her while I was out campaigning."

Suhaili, who has known his wife from childhood, said he made the decision after much serious thought.
"I cannot go on neglecting my constituents. With my wife in hospital, I cannot concentrate fully on my work," said Suhaili, 47, the Labuan Umno division chief.

He had proposed his division's deputy, Datuk Yusoff Mahal, to contest this election.

He also said he would be with his successor on nomination day and would take part in the campaign whenever possible.

"I will make sure Barisan Nasional wins the election."

Suhaili's wife, Datin Fatimah Wan Chik, 44, has been in a coma following complications from cosmetic surgery she had undergone at a clinic in Klang on Jan 9.

She is on life-support at the intensive care unit of the Gleneagles Intan Medical Centre.

Suhaili, who helped turn Labuan into the success it is today, remains chairman of Labuan Corporation, the leading agency for the development of the island.

Labuan, declared a federal territory on April 16, 1984, is a free-trade zone cum tourism island under the administration of Labuan Corporation.