Voters Prefer Small-scale Mahkota By-election Campaign

KLUANG, Sept 16 (Bernama) -- The Mahkota by-election campaign has been muted by a lackluster display of flags and posters despite entering its third day.

A Bernama survey around the state constituency found a scattered presence of flags, mostly concentrated at polling centres.

Although it is less lively compared to previous by-elections, a majority of residents interviewed said they prefer this small-scale campaign approach. 

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Retired government employee Mohd Ali Mansor, 62, said this is a more meaningful approach for the community compared to mega rallies as it gives voters more opportunities to get to know the candidates.

"It's better to campaign on a small scale but with more substance. Mega rallies are expensive and sometimes more supporters from outside attend.

“We don't have the opportunity to voice our concerns directly to the candidates," he said when met at the Kampung Melayu Pasar Tani here today.

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Civil servant, Alif Abdul Aziz, 34, agreed, saying smaller-scale campaigns are more peaceful and less disruptive, without traffic congestion and noise, especially on weekdays.

‘Moreover, there are now many social media platforms. Voters can follow a candidate's account if they want to stay updated on campaign developments from anywhere in a more comfortable setting,’ he said.

In contrast, businessman Tiam Hock, 43, believed that the campaign would be more exciting with more flags and posters.

“Sometimes, contesting parties showcase their creativity, which is interesting to observe. Without flags and posters, the by-election feels less significant,” he said. 

So far, the contesting candidates, Barisan Nasional’s (BN) Syed Hussien Syed Abdullah, 40, and Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) Mohamad Haizan Jaafar, 61, have been seen opting for a face-to-face approach with voters, either by visiting homes or attending community events.

In addition, PN has also conducted small night-time group discussions. Both candidates are also leveraging social media to attract voters.

The Election Commission has set the Mahkota by-election for Sept 28, with early voting on Sept 24.

The by-election is being held following the passing away of the incumbent, Datuk Sharifah Azizah Syed Zain, 63, on Aug 2 while she was receiving treatment at the Enche' Besar Hajjah Khalsom Hospital. 

-- BERNAMA