BENTAYAN: After serving more than three years as the village chief of Kampung Enam Lorong, Barisan Nasional candidate Chua Lee Huat believes that many issues affecting residents need to be addressed at the state level.
"We can solve local problems, but bigger issues need state-level decisions," he said when met here.
Among the issues residents frequently raise, he said, are flash floods caused by ageing drainage systems, abandoned properties and jointly owned land that has become difficult to redevelop.
"Resolving these issues often requires the involvement of multiple authorities," he said.
Chua said he hopes to secure more government resources for infrastructure improvements and community development while continuing to support vulnerable groups and encourage youth participation.
The insurance agency owner is also concerned about Muar's economic future, noting the decline of its once-thriving furniture industry and the lack of new industries to create jobs.
"If we can attract more investments, there will be more job opportunities. Young people won't have to leave for Johor Baru, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.
"Once they settle elsewhere, many don't return. That's how a town gradually grows older," he said.
He said creating more employment opportunities would not only strengthen the local economy but also encourage younger residents to build their future closer to home.
As a first-time candidate, Chua said his campaign has focused on meeting voters and using social media to reach younger constituents working outside Muar.
"We have more than 30,000 voters, so it's impossible to meet everyone personally. Social media helps younger voters know who I am and what I stand for," he said.
Chua will face incumbent DAP assemblyman Ng Yak Howe in a straight fight for the Bentayan seat in the July 11 state election.
