SHAH ALAM - The Opposition faces challenges garnering voter interest in the upcoming Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election, which can be attributed to a lack of compelling campaign narratives.
Political analyst Professor Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed from Universiti Utara Malaysia said that issues such as allocations should not hold weight as the government has committed to disbursing funds to the Opposition.
"In the context of Selangor, a state governed by Pakatan Harapan (PH), there is ample attention paid by PH leaders to the residents in terms of development and welfare.
"It's challenging for the Opposition to leverage local issues to attract voters," he told Sinar when contacted yesterday.
Martadha foresees PH retaining the contested seat in the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election due to demographic factors.
He noted the nearly equal distribution of Chinese, Indian, and Malay voters, predicting continued support from non-Malay voters for PH and from Malay voters, particularly Pas supporters, for the Opposition.
"Given PH's track record and the demographic composition in Kuala Kubu Baharu, I anticipate little change in support," he said.
On speculation of potential protests from the Indian community, Martadha dismissed such notions.
He referenced Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's assurances of prioritising the welfare of the Indian community.
"While there is a notable Indian voter presence, it is unlikely to impede PH's victory in retaining the contested seat," he added.
The Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election follows the passing of Kee Hiong, 58, on March 21 after battling cancer for several years.
The Election Commission (EC) has scheduled polling day for May 11, with candidate nominations set for April 27 and early voting on May 7.