AS state elections are fast approaching, there is a danger of voters in Selangor feeling overconfident and staying home on election day. After all, Anwar Ibrahim’s coalition has run the state for 15 years and it has achieved what it set out to do, so why worry?

The truth is that with the constant changes in Malaysia’s political landscape, no coalition or party can truly claim to be in a safe zone, even in Selangor. The belief that Selangor is a Pakatan Harapan stronghold may not be entirely true at this juncture.  

There’s no denying that the Selangor government has worked hard to achieve necessary reforms in healthcare, education, and economic growth. However, there are no certainties in politics. Low voter turnout could easily hand the state over to Perikatan Nasional.

It is estimated that a 65% voter turnout is needed for the Pakatan Harapan coalition to retain Selangor.

This must be a wake-up call for Selangor. Complacency will see the end of political stability and unity in the state. Instead it will make way for inefficiency and lack of progress as we have witnessed in Perikatan Nasional-PAS states.

There is much to look forward to if  Selangor’s government is retained. Recently, the PH-Barisan Nasional (BN) alliance launched the Kita Selangor manifesto offering five key pledges to the people of Selangor should it be chosen to lead the state for the next five years.

The key pledges refer to a superior economy and quality education as catalysts for high-income jobs; religion as the inspiration for a dignified life; efficient government; sustainable development, and Selangor being a compassionate state that defends the rakyat’s interests.

“The manifesto was carefully drafted by the unity team (comprising representatives from PKR, Amanah, DAP and Umno) to further propel Selangor in the five years to come,” said Selangor PH chairman Amirudin Shari at the launch of the manifesto.

The power of the vote extends beyond merely electing representatives. It also influences policy decisions that directly impact the lives of Selangor people. Therefore it is of utmost importance that the people of Selangor make their voices heard on August 12.

By participating in the electoral process, voters get to shape the development of the state. They can vote for candidates who prioritise education, healthcare, infrastructure, environmental conservation, and economic growth, among other vital issues.

Remember, voting is not just a right but a privilege and a responsibility. – August 9, 2023.

* Jai Naeer reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.