IPOH: Barisan Nasional has set a target of securing at least 18,000 votes in the upcoming Ayer Kuning by-election, says Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
The Perak Mentri Besar said this was in a bid to maintain political stability in Perak and to continue the state’s development agenda under the Perak Sejahtera 2030 plan.
Saarani emphasised the importance of mobilising every available resource to ensure victory in the by-election on April 26.
“With 31,897 registered voters in the Ayer Kuning constituency, and an estimated 75% turnout, we expect about 24,000 people to cast their ballots.
“In the last general election (GE15), the late Barisan candidate received 9,080 votes, with Amanah’s candidate receiving 6,875 votes, and Perikatan Nasional’s candidate getting 6,812 votes.
“So with the combined support from Pakatan Harapan, we are looking at about 15,000 votes— but now we aim higher, since the machinery consists of volunteers from throughout the country,” he said in his speech before the launching of the election machinery and candidate at Kampung Tersusun Haji Tahir’s multi-purpose hall in Temoh near here on Monday (April 7).
The Ayer Kuning by-election is being called following the death of its assemblyman Ishsam Shahruddin on Feb 22.
Saarani added that from today onwards, the 18,000 votes must become the rallying campaign for volunteers and supporters.
“Everywhere you go, you tell people, when someone asks how are you, your answer should be ‘18,000’. If you step foot in Tapah, say ‘18,000’ before anything else.”
“The Election Commission counts ballots, not flags or tents, and the real victory lies in the number of votes cast for Barisan on polling day,” he said.
He also stressed the coalition’s historical strength in Ayer Kuning, having won the seat even during political waves in 2008, 2013, 2018, and the significant shifts in 2022.
He said voters of Ayer Kuning have consistently chosen a representative from the ruling government.
“It would be strange if they now opted for an opposition candidate. The government is already in place, with the development plans ready to go.
“I call on voters from across the political divide — including those from Bersatu and PAS to vote strategically for Barisan to ensure continued growth, investment, and job creation in Perak.
“You can be a PAS member for life but vote for the Barisan’s candidate to secure stability.
“The Perak Sejahtera 2030 initiative aims to transform the state into an industry-driven economy.
“To make this happen, we need a stable government,” he said.
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