NIBONG TEBAL: Several Indian voters in Sungai Bakap told the New Straits Times that they prefer to elect a representative aligned with the unity government to ensure that the people's needs can be fulfilled.
Tomorrow is nomination day for the Sungai Bakap state seat by-election. Voting is on July 6.
The by-election was called following the death of Pas' Nor Zamri Latiff on May 24.
The ruling Pakatan Harapan coalition named former educator Dr Joohari Ariffin as its candidate, while Perikatan Nasional named Abidin Ismail, the former special assistant to Nor Zamri.
Housewife R. Venee, 62, said she would vote for the candidate from the ruling coalition.
"I have nothing against the opposition. In fact, I don't know either candidate very well.
"But if I vote for the opposition, what can they do to help me? At least a ruling government candidate can get things done."
Venee used to live in Sungai Bakap, but now rents a place in Ladang Transkrian.
She said her landlord told her to move out.
"Where am I supposed to go? I hope the candidate voted in can help me get a home."
Housewife and widow M. Deevaki, 56, said she was inclined to vote for the ruling government candidate.
She hoped the new elected representative could improve her and her family's life.
She said it was hard for her son to get a job, let alone a well-paying one.
"I am sick with all sorts of illnesses and I can't work. I only receive RM300 from Socso monthly.
"I hope the person voted in can help my family lead a better life."
K. Maliga, 61, also hoped for a better life for her family.
She said she lived in a rented home with her disabled son and her daughter.
"My daughter is helping with the RM500 monthly rent.
"We hope to have a better life after this. I will be grateful if I can own my own house."
Deevaki and Maliga, who live in Taman Seruling Emas, hoped the new elected representative could solve the water woes in the neighbourhood.