Representing DAP not obstacle to securing Malay votes, says Tiram candidate

PETALING JAYA: DAP’s candidate for the Tiram seat in the Johor state election, Nor Zulaila Abd Ghani, is confident the party’s brand will not stop her from securing votes in the Malay-majority seat.

Nor Zulaila, 38, said voters will judge a candidate based on their track record instead.

“Voters do not assess a candidate based on which party he or she comes from or their race, but on their sincerity and ability to resolve their issues.

“Issues such as potholes, clogged drains, street lights, job opportunities, and the cost of living are those that matter to the people,” the Muar native told FMT.

Nor Zulaila has been serving as a local councillor with the Kajang municipal council since 2018 and has more than 12 years’ experience in public service, community development, and government administration.

She is currently a private secretary to deputy finance minister Liew Chin Tong.

She said her campaign will focus on developing Tiram, generating high-income jobs and creating more opportunities for the residents.

Tiram, with Malay voters comprising 63% of the electorate, is considered a Barisan Nasional stronghold.

In the last state election, Umno wrested the seat back from PKR with a 5,281-vote majority in a seven-cornered fight.

Nor Zulaila said DAP is a multicultural party and does not represent any one race in particular.

“Pakatan Harapan is also a coalition made up of multicultural parties,” she said.

Syafwan Ani, DAP’s other Malay candidate, said experience has taught him that voters will back those who are “consistently present to help them in their time of need”.

He said that in his past nine years with the Kulai parliamentary office, he has dealt with issues revolving around welfare, education and infrastructure.

“I believe voters will judge us based on our track record, and not just on perceptions (about a party),” Syafwan, 33, who will be contesting in Bukit Permai, said.

In the last state polls, BN won the seat with a 4,755-vote majority in a four-cornered fight.

The Johor election is set for July 11, with nominations on June 27 and early voting on July 7.