KUALA LUMPUR: DAP said its candidate for the Kuala Kubu Baharu (KKB) by-election, Pang Sock Tao, was chosen based on her ability to continue the legacy left behind by its former assemblyman, Lee Kee Hiong.

Pang's selection is also part of the party's long-standing pledge to enhance female representation to at least 30 per cent in legislative roles, said a party member.

DAP's Kampung Tunku assemblyman Lim Yi Wei, speaking at the New Straits Times 'Beyond The Headlines' programme today, said ensuring that a woman continues Lee's legacy was very important for the party.

She said although detractors had highlighted Pang's status of not being a local in the constituency, she said this was not the sole consideration when selecting a winnable candidate.

She highlighted Pang's wealth of experience in ministerial governance, having served in the Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) and Energy, Science, Technology, Environment, and Climate Change Ministry (MESTECC).

Lim said Pang's expertise is expected to complement ongoing and prospective development projects in Kuala Kubu Baharu, particularly in enhancing domestic tourism appeal, infrastructure, and sustainability initiatives.

She can push towards sustainable tourism given her experience in MESTECC, which aligns with global trends. This is key especially in Selangor and particularly in Kuala Kubu Baharu," she said.

Pang was named Pakatan Harapan's (PH) candidate on Wednesday while Perikatan Nasional (PN) named Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia's (Bersatu) Hulu Selangor division chief, Khairul Azhari Saut.

The Election Commission (EC) fixed May 11 for the by-election following Lee's death on March 21. Nomination begins today (Sat) while early voting is fixed for May 7.

DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke had previously said that the decision to field Pang was finalised after considering her qualifications.

Lim, meanwhile, also addressed DAP's decision not to field Hulu Selangor Municipal Council (MPHS) member Saripah Bakar as its candidate.

Saripah was widely viewed as a favourite as she was from Kuala Kubu Baharu.

Lim said the party's existing voter base generally does not accept things blindly and has always provided feedback.

She said Pang's nomination underscored the party's focus on meritocracy and expertise in candidate selection.

"I'm sure the top leadership has considered all factors, but unfortunately, I'm not privy to it.

"I think it's a combination of weighing all factors that led the leadership to choose Pang. I'm sure Saripah will continue to be a great asset to the team and the campaign as we move forward.

"I believe there are ways we can communicate to ensure their concerns are addressed during this campaign period and beyond."

Lim said that for Pang's campaign to be successful, she needs to be seen as capable, knowledgeable, and relatable in the spirit of the late Lee.

"We know her capabilities, and now she needs to articulate what she can bring to the table."

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/1043023/pang-chosen-based-ability-continue-lees-legacy-says-yi-wei