NIBONG TEBAL: While an active social media presence is crucial in the Sungai Bakap by-election, both contenders still prefer to hit the pavement and go door-to-door to canvas for votes.Pakatan Harapan’s Dr Joohari Ariffin and Perikatan Nasional’s Abidin Ismail said that personal interaction allows them to engage directly with voters, especially in more rural parts of the constituency where Internet coverage is spotty.
Other videos show Joohari’s walkabouts and market visits, attracting thousands of views and comments. “I do believe that social media can help me reach out to voters as I will not be able to meet everyone in the constituency. Based on my observation from the past few days, the voters have been very warm and receptive to me,” he added.The Nibong Tebal PAS division vice-chairman said although he maintains an active presence on the social media, he preferred the “old school” way of campaigning.
Abidin, a familiar face among Sungai Bakap residents, said another reason for his preference is because of poor Internet connectivity in south Seberang Perai.