The youngest candidate contesting in the Negeri Sembilan state election has appealed to voters to assess his ability and commitment to serving the community rather than focusing on his age.
Bersatu candidate for the Sri Tanjung state seat, M. Leevineshwaraan, 23, said he has been actively involved in community welfare programmes in the constituency for almost two years and believes his track record should speak for itself. He added that effective leadership should be measured by dedication and results, regardless of age.
“I hope the people will look at the work I have done instead of my age. I have been actively helping the community for nearly two years, and as a Sri Tanjung native, I understand the needs and concerns of the people here,” he said when met during a walkabout in the constituency on Sunday.
Leevineshwaraan said his interest in politics was inspired by his father, who has been actively involved in a welfare non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Port Dickson for the past seven years. Through those experiences, he realised that elected representatives have greater opportunities to address issues affecting the people.
He explained that while he could contribute groceries and basic necessities as a businessman, there were limitations to what he could achieve without holding public office, particularly in helping residents secure housing and other government assistance.
Having joined Bersatu about one-and-a-half years ago, Leevineshwaraan said he accepted the party’s decision to field him as a candidate with an open mind and viewed it as an opportunity to serve the people. He also expressed confidence in his ability to compete despite facing more experienced rivals.
“I am contesting in a gentlemanly manner. Every candidate has their own approach, and I have mine. If I am given the mandate to win, I will continue serving the people to the best of my ability,” he said.
If elected as the next state assemblyman, Leevineshwaraan said education would be among his top priorities. He intends to introduce assistance programmes for students in need, including support for school supplies and other educational necessities.
He also urged voters in Sri Tanjung to give younger leaders the opportunity to prove themselves, saying fresh perspectives and commitment could contribute positively to the constituency’s future development.
Leevineshwaraan faces a five-cornered contest against incumbent Datuk Dr G. Rajasekaran of Pakatan Harapan (PH), who won the seat in the previous election with a majority of 3,996 votes. The other candidates are A. Achuthan of Barisan Nasional (BN), as well as Independent candidates Datuk A. Saravanan and Islah Wahyudi Zainuddin.
