SEREMBAN: Malaysians will have the opportunity to vote for their preferred representatives regardless of gender in the state elections taking place on Aug 12 in six states. Zulkifli Hidayat Yusril, a 39-year-old trader, emphasized that personality and the candidate’s approach and understanding of voters were more important factors than gender when deciding whom to vote for. He stated, “I have no problem (about the gender), as long as they are sincere, they understand our plight… because there are those who don’t care after winning.” Abdul Hamid Baharom, a 77-year-old citizen, believed that educated leaders with new ideas would be beneficial to their communities. On the other hand, Aufa Mardhiah Amir Hamzah, a 27-year-old private sector employee, emphasized that women leaders should be selected for their integrity and convincing manifestos, rather than just to fulfill quotas.
Bibi Sharliza Mohd Khalid, a Barisan Nasional candidate for Juasseh, expressed confidence in her 15 years of political experience to empower women and rural communities. Her primary focus is on infrastructure, internet coverage, and youth development. She will be contesting against former Kuala Pilah MP Datuk Eddin Syazlee Shith of Perikatan Nasional. Norwani Ahmat, a Pakatan Harapan candidate for Paroi, argued that leadership duties are not dependent on gender. Meanwhile, Nicole Tan, another Pakatan candidate for Bukit Kepayang, hopes that voters will evaluate her based on her track record as an assemblyman and as a state executive councillor. She aims to be an inspiration for other women to participate in politics and other fields of interest.
The state of Negri Sembilan has a total of 36 contested state seats, with seven women candidates. Four candidates are from Pakatan, one from Barisan, and two from Perikatan.- Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
