Ayer Kuning: Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for the Ayer Kuning state by-election, Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir, is optimistic that he will be able to gain the support of fence-sitters and those who previously supported the opposing party. The former teacher stated that he provided a clear explanation to this group regarding the development and direction of the constituency through a face-to-face approach throughout the campaign, which has two days left.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Mohamad Yusri acknowledged the challenge of penetrating the grey and black areas but expressed his commitment to reaching out to these voters. He hopes that they will provide him the opportunity to improve the developmental trajectory of the Ayer Kuning constituency. “Some say, they can give (the vote) this time. They are choosing the BN candidate because what is important to them is development,” he mentioned when speaking with reporters.

Regarding the racial and religious sentiments that have emerged during the by-election campaign, Dr Mohamad Yusri, who holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Islamic Education, emphasized his preference for a people-friendly approach over divisive issues that could harm racial harmony.

The Ayer Kuning by-election was triggered by the death of the incumbent, Ishsam Shahruddin, due to a heart attack on February 22. The election sees a three-cornered contest between Mohamad Yusri, Perikatan Nasional (PN) candidate Abd Muhaimin Malek, and Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) candidate Bawani KS. The Election Commission (EC) has scheduled polling day for this Saturday, with early voting having taken place yesterday.