KUALA LUMPUR – The Ayer Kuning state by-election has turned into a three-way contest, with candidates from Barisan Nasional (BN), Perikatan Nasional (PN), and Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) vying for the seat following the death of incumbent Ishsham Shahrudin on February 22.
The usually quiet town of Tapah was full of energy this morning, with political leaders and enthusiastic supporters filling the streets for the nomination of candidates at Dewan Merdeka. The atmosphere was electric, with party colours, chants, and banners filling the air as supporters rallied behind their respective candidates, Bernama reported.
Barisan Nasional (BN) is represented by Tapah Umno division secretary Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir, 54, while Perikatan Nasional (PN) has fielded Tapah PN chairman Abd Muhaimin Malek, 44. PSM is represented by its deputy secretary-general Bawani KS, 40.
Supporters began arriving as early as 7am, turning the calm Saturday morning into a vibrant political celebration.
Yusri, who arrived at 7.08am dressed in a striking blue baju Melayu with sampin, was met with cheers from BN supporters. He was accompanied by senior party leaders, including BN chairman and Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Perak BN chairman Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, and Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani.
Also present were leaders from the unity government’s component parties, such as Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and Perak DAP chairman Nga Kor Ming.
Meanwhile, Abd Muhaimin Malek, who arrived with supporters dressed in PN colours, was accompanied by senior coalition figures, including PAS deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man and Bersatu deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin.
Bawani KS, who made a dramatic entrance with her supporters on a tractor as a gimmick, submitted her nomination papers at 9.15am. Abd Muhaimin was the first to submit his papers at 9.01am, followed by Yusri at 9.06am.
The Election Commission has set polling day for April 26, with early voting on April 22. – April 12, 2025