A dab hand at election campaigns

Ho (blue shirt) and Tan (at Ho’s left) with other volunteers at the thanksgiving dinner. — Photos: KT GOH/The Star

Former teacher, 77, turned tour guide puts skills to good use by helping candidates

AGE is just a number for retired teacher Ho Heng Kee, 77, who has been offering his services to candidates during the past two elections.

Last month, he helped DAP candidate Connie Tan Hooi Peng who was contesting the Seri Delima seat, which she subsequently won.

He had earlier volunteered during the 15th General Election in November last year, helping DAP’s Ramkarpal Singh retain his Bukit Gelugor parliamentary seat.

Ho said that after retiring as a teacher, he started working as a full-time tour guide.

When he realised elections and tours involved similar skills in reaching out to people about history, he decided to help out candidates.

“As a tour guide, I introduce tourists to Penang. During elections, I introduce candidates to locals so the people will get to know them better.

“I have never been politically inclined but as I grew older, I realised I must help society in some way.

(From left) Deputy Finance Minister II Steven Sim Chee Keong, Tan and Chow taking part in a karaoke session during the thanksgiving dinner.

“I even managed to get some people living in my area to volunteer as well,” he said when met at Tan’s thanksgiving dinner in George Town.

Ho has lived in the Seri Delima state constituency since 1976 so he knows the area well.

“I was present at some ceramah and accompanied Tan during her walkabouts to meet voters.

“I know age is catching up but in five years if I am still able, I would love to volunteer again.”

The dinner was held to thank those who helped Tan in her campaign.

Tan said she was touched by the volunteers’ commitment.

“You fought for me and played a big role in my win,” she said.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present, said those elected had to work hard.

“We must fulfil all our promises to the voters,” he said.