Ayer Keroh penting untuk buktikan PH diterima semua kaum, kata Kerk
Penyandang daripada DAP itu berkata kerusi berkenaan turut menjadi ujian terhadap kerjasama antara BN dan PN.
Ayer Keroh is crucial for demonstrating that Pakatan Harapan (PH) can attract voters from all communities, according to Kerk Chee Yee, who has represented the constituency since 2018. The DAP has held the seat since 2008, and Kerk is now contesting for a third term. He believes the voter composition, which includes significant numbers from different communities, makes Ayer Keroh a marginal seat that could change hands.
Kerk agrees with political analyst Ong Kian Ming's assessment that Ayer Keroh is in a very dangerous position for PH, as it has never been a safe haven for the party. PAS recognizes Ayer Keroh as one of the potentially winnable seats, alongside others that could demonstrate the success or failure of Barisan Nasional-Perikatan Nasional cooperation.
DAP has maintained Ayer Keroh since 2008, when it was won by Khoo Poay Tiong. The constituency, with 46% Chinese, 44.1% Malay and 8.2% Indian voters, has historically been one of three mixed constituencies previously held by DAP, alongside Bemban and Duyong, which both fell to PN and BN in the 2021 election. Many voters questioned Kerk's presence as a representative, according to FMT, and some criticized his slow response to concerns and handling of local issues such as blocked drains and fallen trees.
However, some residents praised Kerk for promoting community programs and addressing resident concerns, albeit with certain limitations. Chan, a 59-year-old food stall owner in Bukit Beruang, said Kerk's staff sometimes take action on resident complaints when Kerk is busy, but more staff are needed given the large area he has to manage.
During the 14 November primary, Kerk faced four opponents, including Michael Gan from PN, Hamnaim Mohamad from Bersatu, and Muhaimin Lau Abdullah from Bersama. Kerk acknowledged Bersama's right to contest from a democratic standpoint but said voters should consider the broader implications of their choice, including the possibility of a stronger BN-PN coalition after the election.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Hakimin sandar isu rakyat untuk pecah kubu BN Ayer Molek freemalaysiatoday.com
