SHAH ALAM - Four candidates from the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) have expressed their intention to deliver a wake-up call to the government by participating in the upcoming Selangor state elections. These relatively young candidates have stressed their focus on crucial issues such as infrastructure, welfare, and youth empowerment.
Muda secretary-general Amir Hadi, 32, who is contesting in the Seri Serdang state seat, said that he wants the government to be consistent with the reforms that it promised, including the repeal of the University and College Act (AUKU).
"There are two dimensions that Muda wants, which are the local and national issues as a sign for the government to hear the voices of the people consistently,” he said on Friday.
He said he is in high spirits and prepared to give a challenge as his name was chosen as a candidate for Muda to contest in the state election on Aug 12.
"I have assembled a team dedicated to assisting in our efforts, and we welcome volunteer support.
"Currently, we are making financial preparations through activities like clothing sales, as we rely on public financing without major contributors," he explained.
Batu Tiga state seat candidate Saiyidah Izzati Nur Razak Maideen, 35, said she wants to increase the representation of women as policymakers at state level.
"Selangor is a highly developed state, yet the percentage of women in representative positions remains low.
"My mission is to encourage more young individuals, particularly women, to step up and become leaders," she said.
She added that her involvement in politics began with Muda's establishment, as its fresh approach, free from the entanglement of race, religion, and royalty (3R issues), inspired her to contribute to the community and drive change.
Muda has also introduced two other candidates, R Thanusha, a 25-year-old teacher representing Muda in the Sentosa state seat, and Melanie Ting, a 23-year-old law graduate contesting for the Bukit Antarabangsa state seat.
Melanie expressed her eagerness to contest the election, undeterred by the experience of other candidates.
"My aim is to win and bring about change, providing dedicated service to the voters in the Bukit Antarabangsa State Assembly.
"I will prioritise addressing climate change and improving public transportation, particularly the frequency of buses in the area," she outlined.
Meanwhile, Thanusha said that she plans to utilise the state election campaign period to introduce herself to the voters in Sentosa.
"I will ensure that my campaign is extraordinary and innovative, capturing the attention of the voters.
"Our campaign activities and fundraising efforts are already underway.
"I chose to contest under Muda because I believe in their ideology and highlighted policies.
"Sentosa needs fresh ideas that are not only theoretical but also practical," she said.