SEREMBAN: The Indian community should make its choice in the upcoming Negri Sembilan state election based on long-term political stability by evaluating the performance of both the state and Federal governments, says political analyst Datuk Anbumani Balan.
He said the community should not let their votes be influenced by political manoeuvrings that are only geared towards power struggles.
Anbumani added that the Indian community needs to look beyond election campaigns by evaluating political coalitions that can offer long-term stability.
"Stability is the foundation for economic growth, job opportunities, investment inflows and the well-being of the people, and every state government has its own achievements to be evaluated.
"The Indian community should not allow itself to be used as a pawn in political power struggles. More importantly, voters should choose leaders with a proven track record, clear policies and a commitment to continuing inclusive development,” he said in a statement on Sunday (July 19).
He said although the Indian community is a minority, its role in the nation’s development alongside other communities cannot be denied, and that the political support of the Indian community has often been a deciding factor in elections, particularly in mixed constituencies.
Anbumani, who is also a media consultant, said the Negri Sembilan state election is set to be an important test of the extent to which voters, especially the Indian community, make their choices based on the administration’s record of achievements and stability.
He said the Indian community is now more critical in making decisions and no longer depends solely on political sentiment, but instead assesses whether a government is really capable of bringing change in daily life.
"The Indian community’s vote does not merely determine who forms the state government, but also shapes the direction of community development for years to come.
“Therefore, the choice made should be guided by stability, performance and the ability to govern for a better future,” he said.
The Negri Sembilan state assembly was dissolved on June 5, with the Election Commission setting Aug 1 as polling day and July 28 for early voting.
A total of 889,490 registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots, comprising 867,151 ordinary voters, 16,884 military personnel and their spouses, and 5,455 police officers as early voters.
For the latest news on the state polls, visit https://prn.bernama.com/n9. – Bernama
