LETTER | As state elections are fast approaching, there is a certain danger of voters in Selangor feeling overconfident and staying home on election day. After all, it’s been 15 years since Anwar Ibrahim’s coalition ran the state and it has achieved what it had set out to do, so why worry?

The truth is that with the constant changes in Malaysia’s political landscape, no coalition or party can truly claim to be in a safe zone, even in Selangor. The belief that Selangor is a Pakatan Harapan stronghold may not be entirely true at this juncture.

There’s no denying that the Selangor government has worked hard and has been steadfast in achieving reforms in healthcare, education, and economic growth. However, there are no certainties in Malaysian politics. Low-voter turnout can easily hand the state over to Perikatan Nasional.

It is estimated that a 65 percent voter turnout is needed for the Harapan coalition to retain Selangor and to continue governing the state.

Wake-up call

This must be a wake-up call for those living in Selangor. Complacency will see the end of political stability and unity in the state. Instead, it will make way for inefficiency and lack of progress as we have witnessed in states governed by PN-PAS.

There is much to look forward to if Selangor's state government is retained. Recently, the Harapan-BN alliance launched the 'Kita Selangor' manifesto offering five key pledges to the people of Selangor should they be chosen to lead the state for the next five years.

The key pledges refer to a superior economy and quality education as catalysts for high-income jobs; religion as the inspiration for a dignified life; efficient government; sustainable development, and Selangor being a compassionate state that defends the rakyat’s interests.

"The manifesto was carefully drafted by the unity team (comprising representatives from PKR, Amanah, DAP, and Umno) to further propel Selangor in the five years to come," said Selangor Harapan chairperson Amirudin Shari during the launch of the manifesto and the introduction of the candidates representing the alliance.

Utmost importance

The power of the vote extends beyond merely electing representatives. It also influences policy decisions that directly impact the lives of Selangorians. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that the people of Selangor come out and make their voices heard this Aus 12.

By participating in the electoral process, voters have the opportunity to shape the direction of the state's development. They can vote for candidates who prioritise education, healthcare, infrastructure, environmental conservation, and economic growth, among other vital issues.

Remember, voting is not just a right but also a privilege and a responsibility.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.