The PAS candidate from Tapah for Perikatan Nasional (PN) in the Ayer Kuning parliamentary constituency is predicted to achieve victory without many obstacles, reflecting the public’s disappointment with the sweet promises of the Madani government. The people are said to be tired of various issues, especially among entrepreneurs who feel that stringent business approval processes are exacerbating local economic conditions.
Many entrepreneurs, particularly from the Indian community, have launched harsh criticisms of the government for refusing to grant approvals to restaurant operators and traders dealing in recycled goods. Numerous netizens have sarcastically asked, “Are we treated like dogs by the Madani government just to get our approvals?” One restaurant owner, who manages six outlets, revealed that he had incurred losses of up to RM50,000 solely for paying rent for three outlets, which disrupted his business operations.
According to one Indian entrepreneur, “We are not asking for each outlet to pay exorbitant fees if every application was approved. In fact, having just 10 employees is sufficient to cover basic expenses.” Meanwhile, the recycled goods sector has also been facing challenges since the Madani government took over. The issues encountered by Chinese entrepreneurs have also caught the public’s attention, reflecting the mounting economic pressure on local businesses.
In this challenging situation, PN in Ayer Kuning is said to be taking the economic issues very seriously. Supporters emphasize that if the PN candidate does not address these matters with genuine concern and actively engage with voters in the field, the victory could easily slip to the opposition. “PN victory is certain, but the number of campaign vehicles and field teams is crucial. Prove to the voters that you are the candidate truly dedicated to the people of Ayer Kuning – it is your soul,” declared one supporter.
Ustaz Versus Ustaz: The PAS Tapah Chief, Abdul Muhaimin Malek
PN has announced PAS Tapah’s Chief, Ustaz Abdul Muhaimin Malek, as the unified candidate for the Ayer Kuning parliamentary seat, which is expected to be contested in the near future. Deputy President of PAS, Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, made the announcement at an event attended by top PN leaders at both the national and state levels.
“Today’s candidate has been unanimously approved. On behalf of PAS, I extend my gratitude to all component party leaders. PN agreed to nominate a local candidate (from Tapah) for this parliamentary seat,” stated Tuan Ibrahim as he introduced Ustaz Abdul Muhaimin, 43, as a young candidate. He is the principal of the Madrasah Tahfiz Al-Quran Ayer Kuning and a member of the Perak Maahad Tahfiz Al-Quran Association. He has also held several important positions in the party, including PAS Tapah Youth Chief, PAS Tapah Chief, and now as PN Tapah Chairman.
In his speech, Ustaz Abdul Muhaimin said his candidacy is a big responsibility and that he is ready to take it on with full support from his backers. The Ayer Kuning seat will see a heated contest between two “ustaz” candidates, including Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) candidate Bawani KS. Previously, Barisan Nasional had nominated Tapah’s UMNO Secretary, Yusri Bakir—also an ustaz—as their candidate.
The seat is being contested after the death of its incumbent, Ishsam Shahruddin, 59, on 22 February. In the 2018 general elections (PRU15), the late Ishsam won the seat with a margin of 2,213 votes. The Election Commission has set 12 April as the candidate nomination day, with polling scheduled for 26 April and early voting on 22 April.
Conclusion
The difficulties in obtaining business approvals—especially for restaurant owners and traders of recycled goods—highlight the economic pressures faced by local entrepreneurs since the Madani government took over. Chinese entrepreneurs are also facing challenges, which show a growing public dissatisfaction. If Ustaz Abdul Muhaimin addresses these issues effectively and shows a strong campaign presence, PN is expected to win and bring positive change to the community.