MELAKA: Locals had mixed reactions over the unusual state elections without the usual hype and fanfare during campaigning.

       While some welcomed the move, saying it was good for everyone’s health and safety, others said it was a letdown.

       Melaka Advertising Association president Edison Chan said campaigning had been a low-key affair, with many still concerned with the pandemic.

       “It doesn’t feel like an election is taking place.

       “It’s too quiet. I think the Election Commission should give space for all candidates to campaign under tight standard operating procedures,” he said, adding that it is important as the older generation are not well-versed with online campaigning.

       Meanwhile, Chan said he hoped the new government after the election would work towards improving tourism facilities in the state.

       “Once tourism is affected in Melaka, the chain reaction involves many other industries and sectors, businesses and people’s income,” he said.

       Also, following rapid development, Chan said flash floods had worsened in many areas after downpours.

       “Many places that had no flooding problems previously such as in Ayer Keroh and Cheng have become flood-prone due to development and poor drainage.

       “We want the new state government to solve this problem once and for all,” he added.

       Malaysia Budget Hotel Association’s (MyBHA) Melaka chapter chairman Sazali Sabri chairman said that its 176 members are running between 50% and 60% occupancy during the weekdays due to restrictions on physical campaigning.

       “On the weekends it can be full but on weekdays it is average,” he said.

       Kota Melaka Wanita Umno chief Datuk Haryaty Hamzah said despite the restrictions, their grassroots machinery is still in an upbeat mood and are finding ways to reach out to as many people as possible.

       “They are all in high spirits to ensure Barisan can win. The restriction is not too bad for us. But the mood is different.

       “We will take advantage of the limitations with our own creativity,” she said.

       Local Syed Nur Mughni Syed Abdul Hamid, 33, said the campaign period was not as cheerful as before.

       “I hope whichever party that wins, they will fulfil their promises and walk the talk.

       “They need to help revive the economy and improve infrastructure in Melaka,” he said.

       “They also need to listen to the youth as they are the future of the country,” he added.

       Trader Bibi Aishah Golbal Shah, 52, from Bachang, said life was going on as usual despite the upcoming polls.

       “It doesn’t feel like we are having a state election at all. But what to do, we are still facing the Covid-19 virus threat out there,” she said.

       “I also have not seen any party candidates in my area or where I set up my business.

       “I would like to see them in person to know what development they want to bring,” added Bibi, who sells Malay traditional delicacies at Pasar Besar Melaka.

       Beef seller Mohd Helmi Yusof, from Bukit Katil, said he prefers the quiet election so his family can rest.

       “Otherwise, it can get noisy at night especially when the voting day draws near,” he said.

       Vegetable seller Kumar Kanasan said the restrictions on campaigning was the right thing to do.

       “It is better to keep everyone safe,” he said.