Ijok Elections

Ijok is one of the relatively laidback regions in Selangor. Kinda odd coz Selangor is the most developed state in Malaysia. But as election fever started, there has been many claims to bring about development etc. to the region. Barisan National (BN "National Front") is forking out RM36 million, and there is the usual sudden infrastructure improvements (paved roads, traffic lights...).

I am not seriously into politics but I observe and take note of the trends etc. The only opposition this time is Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR "People's Justice Party"), which was formed by Wan Azizah, wife of former deputy prime minister, Anwar Ibrahim. In the past usually Indian candidates were nominated here but PKR decided to nominate a Malay candidate (who was from the region), Khalid Ibrahim, instead. BN is fielding an Indian candidate, Parthiban. This is something fresh as we usually see a certain race against the same race in elections, which I think is fuelling racial politics and segregation etc. Yet, TheStar stated:

"...Barisan has taken a gamble, as a matter of principle, by deciding on an Indian candidate although the constituency has only 28% Indians and the opposition candidate is Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, a Malay.

If voting is based on race instead of a candidate’s policies and credentials, then it would be a sad day for Malaysia.

As we wait to celebrate the country’s national day, the people of Ijok should vote for Parthiban, not because he is an Indian or a Malay, but because he is a Malaysian. Likewise, no one should be voting for Khalid because he is a Malay as it would be a seriously unhealthy political trend..."

Wow... so overt of their political inclination. Oh well... But isn't Khalid a Malaysian as well? I say, vote for who you think can serve you better! Wonder if there will be a day where race does not come into play. I do not want to be taking the paragraph out of context so if you want to read the whole article it is here. You can get alternative news from MalaysiaKini but there is a subscription fee... usually I hear the other side of the news from blogs such as JeffOoi.

There has been a lot of reminders asking eligible people (above 21 years old) to register as voters recently. Nationwide elections should be coming soon... within this year? Time to practice our rights as a citizen. Note to self: Register as voter ASAP.