Rivalry in Rantau seen as 'friendly match' between ruling coalitions
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A Pakatan Harapan candidate in the Negeri Sembilan state election has described his one-on-one contest as a "friendly match" with Barisan Nasional.
- The candidate, a medical doctor, aims to bring a youthful, energetic, and professional approach to the Rantau constituency.
- Key campaign issues include housing in Sendayan and the welfare and health of villagers in Rantau.
Dr. Azizul Hakim Mahdi, a 35-year-old medical professional and the Negeri Sembilan Youth Wing Information Chief for Angkatan Muda Keadilan (AMK), faces incumbent Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan in a direct contest for the Rantau state seat. Dr. Azizul views this election as a "friendly match" between Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN), given that both coalitions are partners in the federal unity government.
Actually, this can also be considered a friendly match between Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional. Because at the federal level, we are still the unity government.
Despite his respect for Mohamad Hasan, who has held the Rantau seat since 2004, Dr. Azizul is determined to campaign vigorously. He believes his candidacy offers a fresh alternative, urging voters to choose a younger, energetic, and professionally trained candidate. "As a medical doctor and professional, I will try to bring a difference to the Rantau state constituency. I want to invite voters to choose a younger, energetic, and professional candidate in the medical field," he stated after the candidate nomination process.
Dr. Azizul has identified housing issues in the Sendayan area and the welfare and health of villagers in Rantau as his primary concerns. He recognizes the diverse demographics of the Rantau constituency, necessitating tailored approaches for different local needs. The rapidly developing Sendayan area, characterized by its housing estates, faces challenges such as home ownership affordability, traffic congestion, and insufficient school facilities.
As a medical doctor and professional, I will try to bring a difference to the Rantau state constituency. I want to invite voters to choose a younger, energetic, and professional candidate in the medical field.
"Rantau has mixed areas. In the north, there is Sendayan, which is more of a park and urban area, while in the south, it is mostly village areas," Dr. Azizul explained. He noted that many local residents in Sendayan struggle to afford homes, as properties are often bought by outsiders. He also aims to develop Sendayan into a "smarter" area by addressing traffic concerns and expanding educational infrastructure to match the growing number of residences.
Rantau has mixed areas. In the north, there is Sendayan, which is more of a park and urban area, while in the south, it is mostly village areas.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.