MELAKA: Bandar Hilir is one of the interesting seats in the Melaka polls, with MCA’s Jasmine Lok Huey Yee taking on DAP incumbent Leng Chau Yen in a contest between two women known for their service on the ground.
Lok, 38, has been involved in community work since 2011 and has served as a Melaka Historic City Council councillor since 2022.
Leng has held the seat since 2021, after eight years as political secretary to her predecessor Tey Kok Kiew.
Lok, on the Barisan Nasional ticket, and Pakatan Harapan’s Leng are up against Parti Bersama Malaysia’s Dr Mohd Nor Rashidi Ab Jalil in a three-cornered fight.
For Lok, who is contesting her first election, public service starts with getting the basics right.
She said her work had focused on everyday issues such as drainage, cleanliness, street lighting, parking and concerns raised by local businesses.
“These may seem like small matters, but they directly affect people’s daily lives,” she said when met before filing her nomination on Saturday (Oct 31).
“Contesting now is a natural continuation of my commitment to public service.
“I believe age is not the only factor. What matters is experience, commitment and the willingness to listen,” she added.
She said she hoped to bring fresh perspectives as a younger woman with grassroots experience.
“Young voters deserve to be heard, not just approached during elections,” said Lok.
She wants to engage them through social media and face-to-face conversations on jobs and living costs.
Lok said she respected voters’ decisions over the years.
“My focus is on what I can contribute through my experience in local government and community service,” she said, adding that she wanted to emphasise accessibility and consistent follow-up on everyday problems.
Leng, who won in 2021 with a 7,778-vote majority, said in a Facebook post that she had drawn No. 2 on the ballot.
“I know there is still a lot of work left undone, and many areas where I can do better,” she wrote.
She wants to improve the living environment and public amenities, and create more opportunities for young people.
She also wants local small traders to benefit from tourism, and better care for women, children, the elderly and families in need.
“These are not distant visions, but matters that touch the lives of every family,” she said.
Polling is on Nov 14.
