GE15: Elected candidates must connect with rakyat, say traders

TAWAU: Elected candidates must be able to connect with the rakyat and empathise with their plight, say some market traders here.

These traders – such as an egg seller at the Pasar Tanjung Tawau here – said that representatives must also be able to bring new ideas and improve the livelihood of the rakyat.

“Some parties are making a good move by fielding young candidates. It shows that it’s time for new faces and ideas,” said the 49-year-old.

She also said that she hoped elected candidates would also go to the ground and listen to the concerns of the people, especially those of market traders.

The lady said the egg supply situation had made the economic situation worse for sellers like her.

“My livelihood relies on selling eggs. Nowadays, it’s very hard to get supplies and our cost of operations is also increasing. I can only make a 20 sen profit after deducting packaging and overhead costs,” she said.

Similarly, another egg seller who wants to be known as Freddy said that he is also facing the same problem.

He said before the supply issues, he used to receive more than 20 orders from suppliers but now only receives about 15.

“Something needs to be done,” he said.

Freddy also said that elected representatives must hear the plight of the rakyat at all times and be responsible for their care.

“Don’t only come during election period, hear our plight even after being elected,” the 72-year-old said.

A 55-year-old dried herb seller known as Lee said she hoped that the city council can lower the rent as she has to pay a rental of around RM60 per month excluding parking fees.

She said the amount was a lot for a small stall like hers, adding that she does not have many customers.

“I will work until I can’t walk because I need to support my living expenses. I hope I can spend less on rent so I can reduce my operating costs,” she said addding that she has been operating since the market complex was opened over 20 years ago.

As of today, some parties have announced their candidates in the town of almost 90,000 voters.

Incumbent MP 70-year-old Datuk Christina Liew of PKR is set to defend her seat, while Warisan is fielding its youngest candidate, lawyer KC Chen, 28.

Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-Barisan Nasional will also be fielding a lawyer, Lo Su Fui, 41.

The Nomination Day for the 15th General Election will be on Saturday (Nov 5) and polling day will be on Nov 19.