Youngest candidate in Penang to go up against oldest for Pantai Jerejak
BAYAN LEPAS - The Pantai Jerejak state seat in Penang is set for a unique battle as the youngest candidate, 26-year-old Priyankaa Loh from the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda), goes up against the oldest candidate, 80-year-old Ravinder Singh from Parti Rakyat Malaysia (PRM), in the upcoming Penang state elections.
They will be joined by Fahmi Zainol, representing Pakatan Harapan (PH), and Oh Tong Keong from Perikatan Nasional (PN).
In an exclusive interview with Sinar Daily, Priyankaa exudes confidence in her youthful energy and different mindset compared to others.
"Yes, I am young, a proud Penangnite candidate, and I firmly believe in myself," she added with a beaming smile.
As a teacher, Priyankaa is passionate about ensuring that all children in her constituency receive a proper education.
"If given the mandate by the rakyat here, I will ensure that free tuition classes are available to underprivileged children.
"As an educator, my advocacy is for better access to education. If elected in Pantai Jerejak, I will organise free tuition classes for primary students every week – a promise I intend to fulfill," she said.
Priyankaa revealed that Muda aims to enhance and expand education at all levels, ranging from early childhood and after-school programmes to adult and lifelong learning opportunities, covering both conventional subjects and vocational training.
"In addition, we will collaborate with industry partners to offer comprehensive and cost-effective digital skills training programmes, preparing our citizens for a digital future by equipping them with knowledge in coding, data analytics, and AI technology," she stressed.
Priyankaa's background is a unique blend of cultures; she is Chinese but was raised by an Indian single mother.
She attended a Chinese-medium primary school and later received her secondary education at Convent Light Street school.
Her linguistic abilities are remarkable, as she can read and write in English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil, and is conversant in Hokkien.
