REMARKS by Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari at the Pakatan Harapan convention − that the government must resolve livelihood issues and safeguard the public’s sense of security − are nothing short of astonishing.
It is surprising that such declarations are still being made after 18 years of Pakatan Harapan rule in the state, which has seen recurring floods, frequent water disruptions, rising assessment taxes and unresolved public safety concerns.
Under such circumstances, how can the Mentri Besar seriously speak about giving the rakyat a sense of security?
The gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights last year affected hundreds of families and caused major damage to homes and property.
Until today, many residents still await a transparent explanation and clear outcome from the investigation.
If even a serious incident like this is not handled with urgency and accountability, how can the people feel safe?
Residents in flood-prone areas such as Klang, Shah Alam, Kajang, Bangi and Puchong continue to face severe flooding every time there is a prolonged torrential downpour.
This is not a new issue, yet year after year there is still no lasting solution.
The public is no longer merely inconvenienced by bad weather.Instead, people are genuinely anxious whenever dark clouds appear.
Is this the “sense of security” the state government is referring to?
Despite Selangor being promoted as the country’s most developed state, the daily struggles confronting ordinary people tell a very different story.
The cost of living continues to climb and assessment taxes keep increasing, while basic issues such as floods and water supply disruptions persist.
When the Mentri Besar says the people need a sense of security, Selangor residents can only respond with frustration and disappointment.
The reality on the ground simply does not match the political rhetoric.
If the state government cannot even resolve long-standing bread-and-butter issues effectively, then all these promises about reform and security are meaningless.
Voters today are not looking for more political catchphrases.
What they expect is competent governance, practical solutions, transparency and accountability.
If the state or Federal Government fails to deliver on the basics that affect the daily lives of citizens, then naturally the rakyat will continue to feel insecure about their future.
Ivone Low Yi Wen
MCA Beliawanis chairman
