KLUANG – Young voters, particularly those living outside of Mahkota, are urged not to take the upcoming by-election lightly and to return home to cast their votes on Sept 28.
Umno Youth Chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh said that although this by-election will not change the state or Federal Government, it is essential for ensuring the well-being and future of Mahkota’s residents.
He pointed out that the election aims to choose a representative who will genuinely serve and address the issues faced by the people of Mahkota, rather than someone who disappears after the election.
"Out-of-town and young voters must not think this by-election is insignificant.
"Even though they live elsewhere, their vote affects the fate of their families back home.
"If they don’t return to vote and a candidate who cannot work wins, their own family members will suffer," he said during a meeting with media personnel at the Ilham Voting District Centre (PDM) here today.
Dr Akmal also unleashed his confidence in Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Syed Hussein Syed Abdullah's ability to represent and advocate for the residents of Mahkota if elected.
He clarified that Umno Youth had recommended Syed Hussein to the central leadership because he is a well-known local leader, respected by people of all ages and races in Mahkota.
"We were surprised when the leadership chose Syed Hussein as the candidate, but we were ready.
"Once given the responsibility, we mobilised our entire team to ensure his victory," he added.
Addressing rumours of dissatisfaction within Umno’s Women’s Wing over not fielding a candidate from their ranks, Dr Akmal praised the Women’s Wing for their dedication in campaigning for the Umno Youth candidate.
"We have received tremendous support not only from the local Umno Women’s team but also from across the country, all working tirelessly to secure our candidate's victory.
"Without the Women’s Wing, I don’t think we could guarantee this success," he said.
The Mahkota by-election, held following the death of incumbent Datuk Sharifah Azizah Syed Zain on Aug 2, is a straight fight between BN candidate Syed Hussein and Perikatan Nasional candidate Mohamad Haizan Jaafar.
The Election Commission (EC) has set Sept 28 as polling day, while early voting takes place on Sept 24.