GEORGE TOWN, July 12 – Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow affirmed that despite a lower voter turnout in the recent Sg Bakap by-election, Pakatan Harapan (PH) still commands strong support among non-Malay voters in the constituency. Chow highlighted that while the turnout affected PH’s performance, particularly due to absentee supporters, the party continues to hold significant backing from the Chinese electorate.
Speaking to reporters at an event in Northam Road, Chow acknowledged the challenges of the by-election turnout, attributing the lower numbers partly to perceptions about the election’s impact and logistical issues. He noted that PH secured 85% of the non-Malay vote, demonstrating ongoing support from Chinese voters, although Perikatan Nasional (PN) garnered substantial Malay support.
Chow dismissed claims of internal factionalism within DAP affecting the campaign, citing unified efforts by national, state, and local leaders throughout the campaign period. Despite the defeat in Sg Bakap, he emphasized PH’s continued engagement with diverse communities through tailored campaign strategies, underscoring the party’s commitment to representing all segments of Penang’s electorate.
