TAPAH: Barisan Nasional candidate Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir is listening to the concerns of the non-Malay communities in Ayer Kuning and will try to resolve their problems.
Asked about the issues frequently raised by those he met, Yusri said they mostly brought up infrastructure matters.
“We took note of their concerns and will try to resolve them through the proper channels," he added.
He said there were specific strategies for both the non-Malay and Malay groups to earn their support and win their hearts.
Yusri said he has already covered around 55% of the campaign trail.
“I am happy with the response, especially from the non-Malay voters.
“I have seen large crowds during our campaign events, and I hope this momentum will continue until polling day on the 26th,” he told reporters after his walkabout session at the Ayer Kuning wet market near here on Tuesday (April 15).
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Yusri said he was doing his best to go down to the ground and meet voters, especially those from non-Malay communities.
“My team and I have visited many areas already, and we will continue to ramp up our efforts to ensure strong support for Barisan.
“We are trying our best to win their hearts, and I realise (that voters) especially from the Chinese community... have started recognising me.
“When I go to markets or attend community events, they are receptive and seem open to choosing Barisan in this by-election,” he said while supporters were shouting “Yat Ho” (candidate No. 1).
ALSO READ: Ayer Kuning polls: Penang DAP will support Umno candidate
Being a strong advocate for education, he was asked if there were any plans to establish a GiatMara or maybe a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institute.
He said something was planned previously, and education would be a key part of his agenda for the people, especially TVET which is now a national priority.
“I always say that education transforms human capital.
“If we are given the mandate to continue leading in Ayer Kuning, the progress will be faster. It’s a priority for us and also an opportunity as part of the government,” he said.
He added that the late assemblyman Ishsam Shahruddin had also proposed a TVET institute and, while planning had not reached an advanced stage, the framework for one is already there.
“It was his priority – he always emphasised education, followed by infrastructure and public amenities," he said.
Yusri is contesting the state seat against Perikatan Nasional’s Abd Muhaimin Malek and Parti Sosialis Malaysia deputy secretary-general KS Bawani.
The by-election was called after Umno incumbent Ishsam Shahruddin, 58, died on Feb 22.
Polling is set for April 26 with early voting on April 22. In GE15, Ishsam polled 9,088 votes to win by a majority of 2,213.
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