KUALA LUMPUR – Former national hockey star Datuk Mirnawan Nawawi is hoping for political stability – and a much-needed boost for grassroots sports – whichever coalition wins in the Melaka election tonight.
Early this morning, the Melaka-born icon voted in Bandar Hilir where there is a four-cornered battle for the seat last won by Pakatan Harapan (PH) assemblyman Tey Kok Kiew of DAP.
The seat was contested today by Leng Chau Yen (PH), Lee Kah Sean (Barisan Nasional), Clarice Chan (Perikatan Nasional), and Mak Chee Kin (Independent).
“After looking at what has been happening since the last general election in 2018, I would like to see political stability because that is important for the people of Melaka right now.
“Political stability will ensure the state government’s uninterrupted implementation of its short-term and long-term plans,” he told The Vibes when contacted.
He added that the next state government should give priority to sports development in Melaka, especially football, hockey, and badminton.
“(At the) end of the day, I am an athlete and want sports to be given sufficient allocations for development.”
Mirnawan, who is the current manager of the national hockey team, expressed hope that the upcoming government will help create more job opportunities for the people of Melaka, and revive the economy severely hit by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The people of Melaka are suffering with few job opportunities because our tourism sector was affected in the last two years. Whichever coalition wins, it does not matter to me as I would like to see us benefit from this state election,” he said.
Although there were criticisms over the strict campaign and polling standard operating procedures, Mirnawan is impressed with the smooth voting process he experienced when he cast his vote.
“It was a wonderful experience and I thank the election officials for making sure everything went well. However, I believe that not everyone came out to vote, given that the pandemic is still in play.
“I understand that people were worried to come out, so I think there’s a low voter turnout,” he said.
The total voter turnout as of 5.30pm was only 63%. – The Vibes, November 20, 2021
