MELAKA: More jobs in Melaka to allow young workers to remain close to their families, a reliable water supply and better public facilities are among the improvements voters hope to see after the Nov 14 polls.
Residents said they want elected representatives to address everyday concerns and ensure campaign promises are followed through long after the election is over.
Trader Ashrieya Maira Zulkifli, 25, said limited job opportunities were forcing many young people to seek work outside Melaka and away from their families.
"Many young people have to leave Melaka because there are not enough job opportunities here.
"We have our parents here and sometimes we want to stay close to them," said the Bukit Katil resident when met at Medan Samudera.
Ashrieya also raised concerns over occasional water disruptions in her neighbourhood, which she believed were linked to construction activities.
"There are times when we experience water disruptions because of construction work around our neighbourhood.
"The disruptions may not last long, but water is something we need every day," she said.
She said campaigning appeared less lively than in previous elections and hoped candidates would make themselves more visible in their constituencies.
Medical laboratory technologist Nagulah Satasivan, 30, called for improvements to public facilities, citing inadequate seating at his workplace that sometimes left patients standing while waiting for treatment.
"Sometimes there are so many patients that they have to stand because there are not enough seats.
"Some even wait outside until their numbers are called," he said.
Nagulah also raised safety concerns over the clinic's flooring, saying some elderly patients had fallen, and urged elected representatives to personally inspect public facilities to better understand the problems faced by residents.
"The government should come out and ask the public what problems they are actually facing.
"Once promises are made, people expect them to be fulfilled," he said.
Medical assistant Sasya John, 33, welcomed the campaign activities but hoped those elected would ensure fair opportunities for Malaysians of all communities.
"We have many races in Malaysia, and we must work together.
"Opportunities should be equal for everyone, not focused on just one community," she said.
