Duyong incumbent: 'For five years, we have been on the ground'

KOTA MELAKA: Incumbent and BN candidate Datuk Mohd Noor Helmy Abdul Halem is aiming to secure re-election in Melaka, relying on his five-year tenure in the constituency. He emphasizes that voters seek a representative they are familiar with, can communicate with, and trust to address community issues. The incumbent believes residents expect their elected representative to be visible and approachable, both online and in person.

Recognizing residents' needs, including household welfare, public safety, and infrastructure, Mohd Noor Helmy asserts that his experience has given him a deep understanding of what the people truly require. He stresses that residents desire sufficient income for daily expenses, a safe environment, and well-maintained roads and drainage to prevent flooding.

For the past five years, he claims to have been "on the ground" and knows what the community needs, adding that residents are not seeking grand structures like high-rise buildings or shopping malls. Instead, they want their basic needs met. Mohd Noor Helmy suggests that development proposals should be evaluated based on Duyong's requirements, and unsuitable projects should be raised through proper channels.

He advises voters to assess incumbents based on their performance, outcomes, and efforts during their five-year tenure, while also considering promises made by challengers. During his time in office, Mohd Noor Helmy initiated a medical crowdfunding campaign through social media, which assisted families with expensive treatments like liver transplants and cancer medication.

This effort, launched around two years ago, also garnered contributions from outside Duyong, including cases from other parts of Melaka and Negri Sembilan. Additionally, he implemented a funeral management program in collaboration with four mosques in the constituency, which provides free funeral arrangements and first-night meals for bereaved Muslim families, reflecting his focus on addressing practical community needs.

Facing off against Mohd Noor Helmy is Pakatan Harapan candidate Poo Long Suan, a former member of the Hang Tuah Jaya Municipal Council.