SHAH ALAM, Jan 18 — Social media platforms should be utilised by elected representatives to engage with the public, rather than relying solely on organising programmes.
Civil servant Thamendran Krishnan Kutty, 50, said the use of social media is broader and more effective, particularly for obtaining the latest information on public issues.
In fact, such platforms would be especially useful if redelineation is carried out, as it would make it easier to resolve arising issues, particularly in remote areas.
“As a Selangor resident, if the government plans to divide zones, it would be very good because emerging issues can be resolved more easily, especially those related to geopolitics and the economy.
“With redelineation, elected representatives can give more serious attention. If we look at it, it is indeed difficult to meet them in person, but they can make use of social media to listen to the voices of the people,” he said.
Delivery rider Muhammad Akmal Mohd Yunus, 28, believes the time has come to implement redelineation so that problems in a particular area can be addressed promptly.
“I live in Meru, and everyone knows that this area frequently experiences flooding. The impact of these floods causes losses and roads to deteriorate easily, but voicing these issues takes a long time.
“So, with redelineation, such issues can be resolved quickly. There are more benefits because areas with fewer voters allow elected representatives to focus better on carrying out their responsibilities,” he said.
The last redelineation exercise was conducted in 2018 and is subject to an eight-year time limit as provided under the Federal Constitution.
According to the Election Commission (EC), any new review can only be initiated after that period ends, taking into account data from the Population and Housing Census conducted every 10 years.
As such, issues of transparency, inclusivity, and public confidence in the EC are expected to remain in focus ahead of any potential future redelineation exercise.
Previously, Selangor UMNO chairman Datuk Megat Zulkarnain Omardin stressed that he would not support any proposal for electoral redelineation that could undermine the interests of Malay-majority constituencies in the state.
The concern arose following assumptions that there are parties seeking to increase the number of non-Malay seats through the redelineation process.
He emphasised that redelineation should be carried out comprehensively, involving all 22 Parliamentary constituencies in Selangor, rather than being focused solely on certain areas.
