TANGKAK, JULY 3 — The battle for the Tangkak state seat is shaping up to hinge on Malay voter support, with both the incumbent from DAP and his MCA challenger acknowledging that backing from all communities will be crucial in the mixed constituency.
Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Ee Chin Li said changes in Tangkak’s voter demographics since the 2022 Johor state election mean candidates can no longer rely on support from a single ethnic group.
He noted that Chinese voters now make up about 48 per cent of the electorate, while Malay voters account for approximately 46 per cent, narrowing the gap compared with the previous election when Chinese voters formed more than half of the electorate.
“As a candidate, I need the support of all races. We cannot focus on only one community because every vote is important,” he said.
Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Haw Chin Teck echoed the same sentiment, saying his campaign is aimed at all voters regardless of race.
“We respect every voter and do not campaign based on race,” he said.
The Tangkak seat is expected to be closely contested after Ee secured victory in the 2022 Johor state election with a slim majority of 372 votes in a five-cornered contest.
However, Ee said the previous result should not be viewed as a benchmark, pointing out that the election was held shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic when voter turnout was only about 54 per cent.
He said PH has since focused on strengthening grassroots support and encouraging more voters, particularly those living outside the constituency, to return home and cast their ballots.
On PAS’ decision to back the BN candidate following the absence of a Perikatan Nasional (PN) contender, Ee acknowledged that it presents an added challenge for PH.
“We recognise the pressure from PAS’ support for BN, but we will address it by working harder and ensuring more PH supporters come out to vote,” he said.
Meanwhile, Haw welcomed support from all quarters, saying any backing that helps BN secure victory would be appreciated.
He also urged voters to consider the performance of the Johor administration under Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi when casting their ballots.
The lawyer added that, if elected on July 11, he intends to use his legal expertise to serve the people of Tangkak, including providing free legal assistance to residents who require it.
— MINUTESMY
