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DAP deputy chairman Nga Kor Ming has criticised the use of satirical caricatures mocking Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, labelling the act as a reflection of political immaturity and an unhelpful distraction from serious national discourse.
The caricatures, displayed by a group of Perikatan Nasional (PN) supporters during the nomination day proceedings for the Ayer Kuning state by-election at Dewan Merdeka, drew immediate backlash for their tone and target.
Nga, who is also the Housing and Local Government Minister, issued a statement condemning the act, saying such “malicious satire” serves no constructive purpose in Malaysia’s political climate.
“This kind of behaviour does not contribute to the country’s progress,” Bernama cited Nga saying today, adding, “It is a cheap attempt to divert public attention from real and pressing issues. Political debates should be based on policies, development plans, and constructive proposals — not childish ridicule of individuals.”
He called for a higher standard of political engagement, saying Malaysia must strive for a political culture that elevates debate and drives development, not one that descends into personal mockery.
“Malaysia needs a constructive political landscape, not a destructive one,” Nga added.
The incident has cast a shadow over the early days of campaigning in the Ayer Kuning by-election, which will see a three-way contest between Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Mohamad Yusri, PN's Abd Muhaimin Malek, and Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) representative Bawani KS.
The by-election was triggered by the death of BN assemblyman Ishsam Shahruddin, who passed away from a heart attack on February 22.
Nga also reaffirmed Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) full backing of the BN candidate in the contest, underscoring the commitment to the federal Unity Government coalition.
“We are committed to strengthening cooperation within the Unity Government for the sake of national stability and the development of Perak. This aligns with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 vision,” he said.
The Election Commission has set polling day for April 26, with early voting scheduled for April 22. The Ayer Kuning seat, part of the Tapah parliamentary constituency, will be closely watched as a potential indicator of broader voter sentiment heading into the next phase of Malaysia’s political journey. - April 12, 2025