NIBONG TEBAL: While an active social media presence is crucial in the Sungai Bakap by-election, both contenders still prefer to hit the pavement and go door-to-door to canvas for votes.Pakatan Harapan’s Dr Joohari Ariffin and Perikatan Nasional’s Abidin Ismail said that personal interaction allows them to engage directly with voters, especially in more rural parts of the constituency where Internet coverage is spotty.
However, they acknowledged the power of social media in terms of reaching out to voters they are unable to meet in person and promoting their campaign promises.
Blending both approaches, they live stream their daily interactions on platforms like TikTok.
In one TikTok video, Joohari chats with a former student who praises him as a good educator and wishes him well in the by-election scheduled for July 6.
The post has garnered over 450 comments with many saying that although a teacher retires, the vocation will always be a part of their identity.
Other videos show Joohari’s walkabouts and market visits, attracting thousands of views and comments.
Joohari pointed out that while social media can be helpful, those viewers are not necessarily Sungai Bakap voters.
“I believe in a balance of both but door-to-door is still important. Many may be viewing the content on social media but they might not be locals,” said the 60-year-old former educator.
“I do believe that social media can help me reach out to voters as I will not be able to meet everyone in the constituency. Based on my observation from the past few days, the voters have been very warm and receptive to me,” he added.
Abidin shared that he preferred face-to-face meetings with the constituents.
The Nibong Tebal PAS division vice-chairman said although he maintains an active presence on the social media, he preferred the “old school” way of campaigning.
He believes door-to-door visits are crucial for understanding ground-level issues directly from voters.
“But we still need social media to publicise our mission and vision. However, I aim to visit as many voters as possible before polling day,” said the 56-year-old.
Abidin, a familiar face among Sungai Bakap residents, said another reason for his preference is because of poor Internet connectivity in south Seberang Perai.
“I believe direct engagement is an effective strategy, especially for rural voters,” said the former aide of the late Nor Zamri Latiff, the deceased Sungai Bakap assemblyman.
Abidin added that his campaign team is mulling the idea of organising live public screenings of selected Euro 2024 matches to attract young voters.
“Probably, PAS Youth will organise them and God-willing, I will attend,” he said.
Despite being an avid football player in his youth and a fan, Abidin said his busy campaign schedule had prevented him from watching any of the international matches.
The by-election was held following the death of incumbent Nor Zamri on May 24 due to stomach inflammation.
