First-timer doing it for the community

Making her mark : Lizfiana Samerra (left) showing off her inked finger to Liza after they cast their votes at SK Sungai Danga in Johor Baru.

JOHOR BARU: First-time voter Lizfiana Samerra Tony felt a mix of nerves and excitement as she marked “X” on the ballot paper in the Pulai parliamentary seat by-election.

The 19-year-old college student from Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Temun said this was because she knew her vote would make a difference in electing a new MP whom she hoped would not overlook her community.

“It was like I was taking an examination except this time, there were no right or wrong answers but one that affects the constituency as a whole.

“I am home from my college in Kuantan on a two-month semester break so I had time to discuss politics with my parents before making my choice,” she said when met at the SK Sungai Danga polling centre near here.

Lizfiana Samera got a ride from her mother, Liza Jaafar, 41, to cast her vote.

Liza said her husband, who is the village’s chief fisherman, went on his own to the polling station as he was busy arranging transportation for other villagers to cast their votes.

“He arranged for three cars to shuttle the villagers to and from the voting centre.

“He has been doing this every time there is an election to ensure our community’s voice is heard,” said the 41-year-old mother of six.

When it comes to the ballot box, Liza said her daughter was free to make her own choice.