KLUANG: On the morning after his big win in the Mahkota state by-election, Syed Hussien Syed Abdullah made it a point to visit his late father's grave.
The newly-elected assemblyman was at the Kampung Melayu Muslim cemetery, here, at 8am, and spent some 30 minutes paying his respects.
It was no small wonder that Syed Hussien's first act was to pay his respects, as the Barisan Nasional man considers his late father his "political guru".
"My abah was my idol, who guided me from the very beginning and inspired me throughout my journey in politics.
"One of his messages was to ensure that I uphold the trust and carry out my responsibilities to the best of my ability if I am chosen as a representative of the people.
"InsyaAllah, I will try to uphold his wishes and do what's best for the people of Mahkota," said the Kluang Umno Youth chief.
Syed Hussien lost his father, who was 67, on Sept 10. Syed Abdullah had been undergoing treatment at a hospital here at the time.
Following the visit to his father's grave, Syed Hussien met with several Mahkota residents as a gesture of gratitude for electing him.
He said he would prioritise the residents' requests, especially from those of the B40 category, the issue of floods, education and the Kasih programme, besides housing issues.
"This win inspires me to serve with greater goodwill, adopting a family-oriented approach that will lead Kluang in a positive direction.
"As a result of my campaigning, I have found that the people are looking for ways or methods from the government that will allow them to benefit.
"The people have rejected racial politicking, which can divide communities, because the most important thing is that all voices are heard," he said.