MAP urges voters to back PSM candidate, send message to 'MGR'

Summary

• Malaysian Advancement Party tells Indian voters, and others - young and old - to back PSM candidate Bawani KS in Ayer Kuning.

• MAP vice-president Kuamaran Adaikalam says the contest can be a pivotal moment to ignite a spark.

AYER KUNING POLLS | Malaysian Advancement Party (MAP) vice-president Kumaran Adaikalam has called on voters to support PSM candidate Bawani KS in the upcoming Ayer Kuning by-election on April 26.

In a message to Indian voters, who make up some 14 percent of the electorate in the state constituency, he accused Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of deceiving the community.

“‘MGR’ has revealed his true colours. It’s time for the community to hold Pakatan Harapan accountable for short-changing them,” he added.

The nickname “MGR” refers to the late Tamil film legend MG Ramachandran, and is used to mock Anwar’s fondness for dancing to MGR’s songs while courting Indian votes.

Kumaran also noted that numerous incentives would be offered to attract Indian voters, who make up 14 percent of the electorate in the state constituency.

“This same Harapan once told voters to take the money and goods, but vote for change,” he reminded.

Pivotal moment

In a separate media statement, Kumaran urged voters from all communities to recognise this election as a pivotal moment.

“An elected representative should be a true voice of the rakyat and a vital bridge to the government - regardless of party lines. Bawani (above), alongside PSM, represents a rising and credible third force - committed to justice, equality, and grassroots empowerment.

“At a time when mainstream politics often fails to reflect the everyday concerns of ordinary Malaysians, Bawani and PSM offer a bold, principled alternative,” he added.

Kumaran highlighted an alarming trend in today’s political landscape, where parties are willing to compromise their values in order to cling to power and the rakyat has borne the brunt of this, facing broken promises and betrayed trust.

The MAP leader emphasised that there is an urgent need for a political force that is independent, principled, and unafraid to hold those in power accountable.

“The people deserve real options - not recycled politicians and empty rhetoric. To the youth of Ayer Kuning: this is your moment to shape the future. You have the power to reject the status quo and support leaders who will fight for the people, not for personal gain. Your voice matters - use it.

“To the older generation: your vote carries the weight of wisdom and experience. You’ve witnessed the cycle of promises made and broken. Let this election be your stand - a message that the rakyat will no longer be taken for granted,” he added.

People have a choice

Kumaran noted that while this by-election would not shift the immediate balance of power in Perak, it is a powerful opportunity to remind all politicians that the people do have a choice.

“Let Ayer Kuning be the spark that ignites a more just, balanced, and accountable political future - one where the rakyat truly leads,” he added.

Bawani, who is the PSM deputy secretary-general, will be facing BN’s Yusri Bakir and Perikatan Nasional’s Abdul Muhaimin Malek.

The seat fell vacant following the death of BN’s Ishsam Shahruddin on Feb 22.

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