NIBONG TEBAL: Voters in Kampung Besar Sungai Kechil want whoever is voted in as the new Sungai Bakap assemblyman to demand answers from the state government about the drastic increase in the state's water tariff.
Electrical shop operator Tan Kim Leng, 61, said that they are already facing a soaring cost of living.
To compound matters, he said, even their water bills, issued every two months, have increased drastically.
"That is why we want whoever is voted into office in the July 6 Sungai Bakap by-election to bring our concerns to the state legislative assembly. Ask why water bills in the state have increased so much, by so many percent.
"Previously, we paid less than RM100. Now, it is way more than that.
"That is our hope. Don't disappoint us voters. An elected representative is supposed to help the people. Don't just show up when canvassing for votes and then go missing after winning.
"The people's needs should be prioritised. Don't only provide lip service and then not work after being voted in. That is the most important message," he said when met today.
Tan said under Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the water bills have increased way too high.
Earlier this month, the state government announced water rebates to ease consumers' burden.
Meanwhile, State Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the Penang government had agreed to give for free the first 10,000 litres of water per bill for six months and issue a RM20 rebate for large households with an income of RM5,000 and below.
He said the state government took note of the people's complaints regarding the new domestic water tariff rates implemented in line with the readjustment of water tariffs by the National Water Service Commission (SPAN) since February this year.
He said, although Penang still enjoyed the second lowest tariffs in Malaysia, many had complained because of the sharp increase from the previous tariff which had not been adjusted for 31 years for the first band (20 cubic metres) and nine years for other bands.
Tan also said that Taman WiduriTaman Seruling Emas were often plagued by low water pressure.
"Those in power need to truly understand the hardships faced by the people.
"Don't leave us hanging after becoming a YB (Yang Berhormat).
"We will vote for you. Don't worry.
Just fulfil your promises and if you provide the best service, you will always stand a chance to be an elected representative," said Tan to Pakatan Harapan's candidate for the Sungai Bakap by-election, Dr Joohari Ariffin, during his walkabout today.
Several voters, who declined to be identified, also have the same message to the two candidates contesting in the by-election.
Joohari is in a straight fight with Perikatan Nasional's Abidin Ismail.
Joohari said, during his walkabout in Sungai Kechil, the people had numerous requests.
He said topping the list soaring cost of living, particularly the diesel subsidy rationalisation.
"Maybe more explanation should be given so the people better can understand the situation and the facilities the government provides better," he said.
Joohari also vowed to develop the local economy if voted in.
The Sungai Bakap by-election has been fixed for July 6.
It was triggered following the death of Pas' assemblyman Nor Zamri Latiff on May 24.