Melaka polls: Syamsinar makes her first vote count despite stroke

MASJID TANAH: In a remarkable display of determination, 21-year-old Syamsinar Abdullah cast her first ballot in the Melaka election despite being paralyzed by a stroke. The young woman, who now relies on a wheelchair and her family's assistance, arrived at SK Jeram polling station around 8:30 am to exercise her democratic right.

Syamsinar, who is voting in the Tanjung Bidara state constituency, expressed her excitement about the experience, saying she was eager to witness the numerous flags and participate in the process. Her father, Abdullah Rahman, 71, revealed that Syamsinar suffered the stroke while driving home from her sister's house in Alor Gajah last year.

Initially complaining of chest pain, Syamsinar was unable to reach her sister for help before losing consciousness. Medical examinations later confirmed bleeding in her brain, leaving her paralyzed and dependent on her family for care. She continues to receive monthly follow-up treatment at the hospital. In the Tanjung Bidara constituency, incumbent Datuk Seri Dr Ab Rauf Yusoh from Barisan Nasional is facing off against Pakatan Harapan candidate Mohd Yunazri Mustamiri in a close contest.