Subscribe in a reader | Subscribe by Email From NST:THE needs of residents in the Permas state constituency in the Johor Baru district have changed over the years but first-time state assemblyman M.M. Samy is aware of this. “Ninety-five per cent of my area is urban, so issues such as basic development and infrastructure are less relevant than before.
“Permas residents are now more concerned about quality — the quality of educational opportunities, the availability of good jobs and accommodation.”
Taman Cendana residents, for instance, had been renting low-cost flats for 15 years. “They are now asking the government to allow them to buy these flats. Such an option would not have occurred to them previously.
“We hold an open day every Monday for the public to see us at our office in Jalan Segget, Johor Baru. MIC has always been relevant to the Indian community. “This is obvious from the number of people who come to see us with their problems and requests for help.”
The 59-year-old Johor MIC state secretary said 35 per cent of Johor MIC members were below the age of 40. “We expect more youths to join after our MIC Youth, Wanita and Puteri branches are set up nationwide. “The party is also going to the grass roots to speak to the community and use online media to spread news about our programmes and how we can help the Indians.”
A recurring problem in Permas which he is determined to solve is flooding. Since March, areas such as Kampung Plentong Baru, Kampung Permas Jaya and Kampung Megah Ria have been flooded three times. “I’ve been working closely with the local councils. Expansion and cleaning-up work on the drainage system, including the rivers and monsoon drains, has already begun.”
Samy is grateful to his wife, M. Pushpa, and four daughters for their love and support. “My family life hasn’t really changed (after being elected). “I was a senator before this, so they are used to me working for the people. I do, however, wish I had more time to spend with my family.”
