Will voter apathy grow due to the hudud debate in Permatang Pauh?

Question

Accepted Answer

Voter Apathy May Increase in Permatang Pauh Due to Hudud Law Debate

Concerns surrounding the implementation of hudud law have led some voters in Permatang Pauh to express a reluctance to participate in the upcoming by-election. Two voters, Ong Chin Chye, 55, and Boo Hang Hooi, 57, indicated that the ongoing debate and potential implications of hudud are causing them to reconsider their decision to vote. This sentiment among a segment of the electorate, particularly within the Chinese community which makes up 23% of voters in the constituency, suggests a potential for increased voter apathy.
Concerns Over Daily Life and Community Impact

Ong Chin Chye, a trader of incense and prayer goods, stated that he is "most likely" to abstain from voting due to the hudud issue. His apprehension stems from the PAS president's push for hudud law in Kelantan and potentially in the Dewan Rakyat, fearing its impact on the daily lives of his family and the broader Chinese community. He also expressed concern that what happens in Kelantan could extend to Penang, a state also administered by the opposition.
Lack of Understanding and Negative Perceptions

Boo Hang Hooi, secretary of the Kampung Bukit Merah Chinese Temple Association, shared similar sentiments, indicating a preference not to vote because of the developments surrounding hudud. He articulated a lack of understanding of the hudud law and voiced worries about its potential negative effects on Taoists within the constituency and across the country. These concerns highlight a disquiet among Chinese voters in Permatang Pauh regarding the implications of the hudud debate.
Electorate Demographics and Potential Influence

The Permatang Pauh constituency comprises a total of 71,890 voters, with Chinese voters accounting for 16,472, or 23% of the total electorate. The by-election is scheduled for May 7 and features a four-cornered contest. The potential for a significant portion of this demographic to consider abstaining due to the hudud issue could influence the overall voter turnout.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Will voter apathy grow due to the hudud debate in Permatang Pauh?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends