39 years of inaction: PSM candidate challenges Ayer Kuning status quo
PSM candidate slams 'stagnant' politics, calls for real change in Ayer Kuning.
TAPAH - Ayer Kuning voters will have a unique choice in the upcoming by-election as Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) candidate KS Bawani urges residents to embrace a 'third force' amid dissatisfaction with mainstream political coalitions.
Bawani’s campaign highlights years of unresolved issues and offers an alternative to what she described as a stagnant and frustrating political environment dominated by Barisan Nasional (BN), Perikatan Nasional (PN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH).
“For 39 years, Ayer Kuning has been under Barisan Nasional, yet basic facilities and development remain insufficient. This by-election is an opportunity for people to break free from the same old choices and consider a third voice,” said Bawani during her campaign trail.
Bawani emphasised that PSM’s participation holds significant meaning beyond mere symbolism.
She stressed that even a single candidate could bring critical issues to the state assembly and drive meaningful debates.
According to her, the focus should be on dedication to addressing real problems and shaping policies that benefit the people.
“Even with one candidate, we can bring critical issues to the state assembly. It's not about how many candidates you have but about the dedication to raising real issues and debating policies that can eventually become law,” she added.
The candidate labelled the by-election as a "wake-up call" for the government.
Bawani expressed frustration with what she perceives as a continuation of old practices under the current PH-BN coalition.
"People toppled BN because they believed Pakatan Harapan would lead the country toward better governance.
"Now, they see it as BN 2.0. This is a referendum for the people to signal their dissatisfaction and demand real change,” she said.
Over the past ten days of campaigning, PSM has tackled pressing issues in Ayer Kuning, including housing rights, forest management and the marginalisation of groups such as the Orang Asli.
“We’ve held press conferences on youth policies, health issues, and the neglect of marginalised communities.
"These topics have not been adequately addressed by other candidates. We believe voters are ready for a change and can lead that change starting in Ayer Kuning,” Bawani said.
Bawani’s campaign calls for voters to think beyond traditional alliances and support candidates who prioritise the needs of the rakyat over political power.
“This is the time for people to choose change, to move away from racial politics and corruption, and to embrace a new way forward,” she said.
The Ayer Kuning by-election could prove pivotal in signaling voters’ readiness to embrace an alternative political force, potentially reshaping the state’s political landscape ahead of the 16th General Election.
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