MELAKA: Five years after entering the electoral fray as Melaka’s youngest candidate, Farzana Hayani Mohd Nasir (pic) is poised for a second bid, backed by experience gained from organising a slew of community programmes since her 2021 debut.
The 26-year-old is expected to be fielded by PKR in a semi-urban constituency in the upcoming state election, although her candidacy and seat have yet to be confirmed.
Farzana said her first outing in Sungai Rambai, when she was just 21, had given her valuable exposure to the demands of an election campaign.
“That was my first experience contesting in an election.
“Over the years, I have gained a better understanding of what it takes to be an election candidate,” she said.
Since that maiden contest, she has maintained her engagement with residents through community programmes focusing on women and youth empowerment, education and health.
The initiatives have kept her involved in community work as she awaits a possible opportunity to contest again.
Farzana, who speaks fluent Mandarin, said she intends to continue championing women and youth empowerment as well as organising educational and health programmes.
However, she acknowledged that her return to contest again would depend on PKR’s decision.
“I have to wait for PKR leadership to announce the names of its candidates on Oct 18.
“I am confident of being selected, given the positive feedback I have received from party leaders,” she said.
Farzana drew attention during the 2021 Melaka election as its youngest candidate, representing Pakatan Harapan in a four-cornered fight for Sungai Rambai.
She finished third with 1,356 votes, behind Barisan Nasional’s Siti Faizah Abdul Azis and Perikatan Nasional’s Muhammad Jefri Safry.
Siti Faizah won the seat with 3,801 votes.
