VOTERS in the Ayer Kuning state constituency head to the polls today to determine the outcome of a closely watched by-election, with 31,281 registered voters eligible to cast their ballots at 19 designated polling centres, according to the Election Commission (EC).
The contest pits Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir against Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) Abd Muhaimin Malek and Parti Sosialis Malaysia’s (PSM) Bawani KS in a three-cornered fight that is seen as a crucial indicator of political cohesion within the Unity Government in Perak.
Demographically, the constituency comprises 56.8 percent Malay voters, 21.1 percent Chinese, 14.4 percent Indian, 6.7 percent Orang Asli, and 0.7 percent from other ethnic groups. Young voters aged between 21 and 40 make up the largest segment at 42.8 percent, followed by middle-aged voters aged 41 to 60 (31.6 percent), seniors aged 61 and above (20.5 percent), and new voters aged 18 to 20 making up the remainder.
Despite predictions of a comfortable win for BN, the key question remains whether the ruling coalition can secure a commanding majority.
“BN is seen to be in a comfortable position based on our two-week campaign observation,” said Hisomuddin Bakar, Chief Executive Officer of Ilham Centre, a political research firm. However, he added that the final vote tally remains uncertain: “The number of votes to be obtained is still a question mark as to whether it meets the 18,000-vote target announced by Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.”
Turnout is a key concern, particularly among young voters, many of whom reside outside the constituency.
Ilham Centre’s interviews revealed a worrying trend: “Young voters, especially those outside the area in places like the Klang Valley, Penang, Ipoh and Teluk Intan, have clearly stated they are not interested in returning to vote.” - April 26, 2025
