KUALA KUBU BARU: "We don't ask for much. Just go to the ground, meet your people and listen to their concerns at least twice a year.

"By being present and attentive, you can truly understand the challenges we face," said Ramli Asom.

Ramli, a 59-year-old murtabak seller, was one of the traders who was met at Kuala Kubu Baharu night market today.

Reflecting on the late assemblyman Lee Kee Hiong's dedicated service to the community, Ramli emphasised the importance of a representative who has a genuine commitment to the people, regardless of race or religion.

"The late Lee served the people of Kuala Kubu Baharu with distinction.

"She was incredibly humble and truly cared about everyone, regardless of their background.

"That's the kind of leader we need - someone who carries on her legacy of compassion and inclusivity," said Ramli who is a lorry driver by day.

He stressed the significance of direct engagement with the constituents, urging the newly elected representative to immerse himself/herself with the community regularly.

Echoing Ramli was takoyaki trader Rosidah Abu Chik, 49, who hoped for a new representative that is genuinely attentive to the needs of the people.

She also envisions the soon-to-be-elected representative playing a pivotal role in enhancing the domestic tourism appeal of Kuala Kubu Baharu.

"We hope for better infrastructure in the area and also the need to upgrade the local hospital to be on par with institutions like the Selayang Hospital."

She also highlights the necessity of improving the bus service in the area, ensuring it can effectively cater to the needs of the B40 group.

A helper at a stall selling drinks Siti Fatimah Bulkani, 38, is hoping for more assistance for the needy in the constituency.

"I hope more assistance can be extended to the needy within the constituency, like myself as a single mother of two children."

Earlier, Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Pang Sock Tao visited the night market and spent about 40 minutes meeting the traders and visitors.

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.

The state seat would be contested by Perikatan Nasional's candidate Khairul Azhari Saut, PH's Pang, Hafizah Zainudin of Parti Rakyat Malaysia (PRM) and Nyau Ke Xin, who is contesting as an independent.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/politics/2024/04/1044270/kkb-election-meet-your-people-regularly-kkb-residents-tell-election