Although four months have passed since a bitter by-election in Ijok, this small town in Selangor continues to retain the highly-charged election atmosphere on the air.

There are no prominent election posters like there were in April. Neither are there any ceramahs. But on the ground, preparations are afoot for a bigger battle for the forthcoming general election, expected to be held early next year.

The incumbent is preparing to stand his ground in a conspicuous manner, the challenger more quietly.