Chinese voters tight-lipped on support as Melaka election nears

In the lead-up to Melaka's upcoming state election on November 14, Chinese voters in the region are tight-lipped about their intended support, citing concerns over their community's turnout. According to data from the statistics department, Chinese individuals make up 21.1% of Melaka's citizen population.

Several residents from Bandar Hilir and Ayer Keroh expressed their intention to vote, viewing it as a civic duty. Lee, a 58-year-old voter, even purchased flight tickets to ensure his Singapore-based children return home to cast their ballots. "We need to remind them that it is our responsibility to vote. We need to encourage and educate them," he told FMT.

Eatery owner Chan, 59, echoed a similar sentiment, stating that it is the people's responsibility to choose capable candidates who can help residents. Concerns over Chinese voter turnout had been rising since the Johor state election in July, with Pakatan Harapan (PH) receiving support from only 52.2% of eligible Chinese voters, while Barisan Nasional (BN) had the backing of 64.1% of eligible Malay voters.

Political analyst Bridget Welsh noted that voter turnout in the Negeri Sembilan state election held in August was 62%, three percentage points higher than in Johor. While most FMT interviewees expressed their intention to vote, many were hesitant to disclose which candidate they would support. Their responses suggested that factors such as a candidate's track record and ability to address day-to-day concerns would be key decision-making factors.

Some voters, like 77-year-old Chin from Bandar Hilir, have previously supported Pakatan Harapan incumbent Leng Chau Yen but have yet to make up their minds for the upcoming election. Ling, a Duyong voter, was also undecided but praised BN incumbent Noor Helmy Abdul Halem for his prompt response to residents' concerns. Khoo, an 88-year-old resident, mentioned that his family and neighbors have traditionally supported Pakatan Harapan, praising Leng's attention to the needs of elderly residents.