'PSM has always stood with the people' - Bawani KS
Unlike other campaigns, she said PSM has chosen to steer clear of 3R issues tactics, focusing instead on community-driven goals.
SHAH ALAM - As the Ayer Kuning state by-election campaign enters its second week, Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) candidate Bawani KS stands out not just for getting a head start in campaigning, but also for her deep-rooted commitment to the community.
While other parties were just starting to gear up, the 39-year-old lawyer and human rights advocate has already made significant progress becoming the first candidate in the by-election to launch her manifesto and publicly declare her assets.
"Ayer Kuning residents can see whether the income or lifestyle of their representatives changes after taking office. It’s a check-and-balance to ensure elected reps are clean and free from corruption," she said during an interview with Sinar.
Listening to the people, raising real issues
After more than a week of walkabouts and dialogues, Bawani shared that local feedback has been consistent, pointing to poor infrastructure, neglected roads and a long list of unresolved issues.
"Every place PSM has visited this past week has some kind of issue. The people are voicing complaints, especially about the poor condition of main roads, whether in Bidor, Kampar, Tapah or Ayer Kuning," she said.
She said Ayer Kuning constituents have pointed out that voters were now more receptive and mature compared to before, noting that more people were willingly sharing suggestions for improvement.
Unlike other campaigns, she said PSM has chosen to steer clear of 3R (race, religion, royalty) issues tactics, focusing instead on community-driven goals.
She added that the party also emphasised that no matter the outcome, the main goal remained the same which was to ensure the community benefits.
Running on people power, not political machinery
Despite limited resources, PSM’s grassroots approach has gained traction. From volunteers cooking daily meals at the command centre to farmers contributing raw goods, the campaign thrives on collective energy.
With support also flowing in from social media, with many sympathisers amplifying PSM’s voice online and making financial contributions, the sentiment that this by-election serves as the people's voice in a rallying effort to be heard still rings true.
"They tell us this time, PSM must win. So I feel the momentum now is very different from the 15th General Election (GE15).
"PSM believes that this Ayer Kuning by-election is the people’s referendum to give the government a wake-up call to get back on the right track," Bawani said.
Old-school campaigning vs sustainable solutions
Commenting on her opponents’ strategies, Bawani criticised and questioned the motive behind Barisan Nasional’s (BN) recent concert in Ayer Kuning, allegedly funded with government resources.
"Why do this only during an election? It clearly shows they are using money to gain votes.
"This is old-school campaigning. They’ve always used this approach to fish for votes. But I think it’s fine—take what they offer, it’s the people’s money anyway," she said, half-joking.
In contrast, she believed that genuine service was what truly resonated with the people and urged voters to make the right decision when it comes to the future of the community.
"As long as people can enjoy themselves, go ahead. Just remember, your vote is secret and make the best decision," she said.
A lifetime commitment to the constituency
Some may wonder if PSM’s presence will fade after the election. However, Bawani has remained firm in her commitment to serve the community, regardless of the by-election outcome.
"I’ve lived in Taman Ria, Ayer Kuning for 39 years and have operated the PSM office in Kampar since 2016. We’re still with the people, handling various issues concerning farmers, the Orang Asli and workers and we’ve never stopped," she said.
She recalled how even after PSM’s loss in GE15, their advocacy produced tangible results.
Of five key demands from Ayer Kuning constituents, three were met, including the installation of an ATM, improved road conditions and reinstated public bus services, a notion Bawani believed was a testament to PSM's enduring impact.
"That’s how PSM works. When we bring up the people’s issues, we make sure their voices are heard and action is taken.
"In terms of service and contribution to the people, PSM has never lost, even if the party often loses at the ballot box," she added.
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