By Yasmin Ramlan
HULU SELANGOR, May 2 — Pang Sock Tao, Pakatan Harapan (Harapan) candidate for the Kuala Kubu by-election, envisions a thriving future for the over 200-year-old historic town.
With a forward-thinking approach, she has meticulously planned the rejuvenation of the capital district of Hulu Selangor.
Her strategy revolves not only around the boosting of the local economy and creating job opportunities — she also aims to foster sustainable development and achieve a balance with nature, thereby establishing the town as a popular destination for eco-tourism.
In a recent interview with Selangor Journal, Pang, a 31-year-old engineering graduate, noted the potential to enhance the town’s heritage and tourism appeal.
“Kuala Kubu Baharu holds rich historical significance and heritage, as well as promising tourism prospects,” she said.
“However, I am committed to preserving the balance between environmental conservation and sustainable development, given the area is covered with protected jungles and rivers.
“I am fully aligned with the policy of the Selangor government, which is crucial to me,” she said, adding that she would be sharing further details of her plans in her upcoming manifesto.
It was reported on Tuesday that Pang, who is representing the Unity Government in the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election, will unveil her manifesto tomorrow.
Pang faces Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) Khairul Azhari Saut, Parti Rakyat Malaysia’s (PRM) Hafizah Zainudin and independent candidate Nyau Ke Xin in a four-cornered fight.
[caption id="attachment_355210" align="aligncenter" width="780"]
Pakatan Harapan candidate for the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election, Pang Sock Tao, speaks during an interview with Selangor Journal at the Kuala Kubu Baharu state constituency community service centre, Hulu Selangor, on April 26, 2024. — Picture by MOHD KHAIRUL HELMY MOHD DIN/SELANGORKINI[/caption]
Kuala Kubu Baharu gained prominence in the late 18th century as a centre for tin mining, attracting Malay communities to participate in the industry.
However, disaster struck in 1883 when a flood caused by the collapse of the Sungai Selangor dam devastated the town, sweeping most of it away.
Though the town was rebuilt in a new location, another flood in 1926 forced it to relocate for a third time, to its current location on higher ground.
Located approximately 60km north of Kuala Lumpur and about 21km from Tanjung Malim, Perak, Kuala Kubu Baharu was once known as Asia’s first garden township for its greenery design.
Today, it offers a charming escape for city dwellers seeking scenic beauty, historical landmarks and a laid-back atmosphere.
Its main industry revolves around agriculture, with the presence of oil palm estates. Additionally, the town focuses on vegetable farming in Ulu Yam, with many farmers supplying their produce to the Selayang wholesale wet market.
The late Lee Kee Hiong, who served the Kuala Kubu Baharu state constituency since the 13th General Election before her passing on March 21, was credited for her significant efforts in fostering unity across diverse racial backgrounds through development initiatives.
Maintaining Lee’s legacy
Thanks to her past participation in Lee’s engagement activities, Pang said she is no stranger to the town today.
“Lee is an experienced female leader from DAP and a mentor for the youth in the party. She served her constituents tirelessly until her passing. I aim to continue her legacy of progress in Kuala Kubu Baharu.
“Her focus on youth development resonates with my own vision, which includes promoting tourism and arts to create opportunities that will keep our young people from leaving Kuala Kubu Baharu,” she said.
Pang also expressed her intention to leverage the town's proximity to popular attractions in the area, aiming to create opportunities beneficial for the youth.
Simultaneously, she hopes voters would give her party the mandate to continue serving the constituency.
[caption id="attachment_355213" align="aligncenter" width="797"]
Pakatan Harapan candidate for the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election, Pang Sock Tao (centre), mingles with public members during a walkabout at Bandar Utama Batang Kali, Hulu Selangor on April 27, 2024. — Picture by MOHD KHAIRUL HELMY MOHD DIN/SELANGORKINI[/caption]
"Firstly, we (Unity Government machinery) need to mobilise our grassroots and get their assistance and support during campaigning. Secondly, we must win over the support of fence-sitters by presenting our policies and manifesto, outlining our plan for Kuala Kubu Baharu.
"If we can address these two aspects, we will have a bright chance," she said.
Kuala Kubu Baharu, which is located near attractions like the Kuala Lumpur Eco Forest Park, Fraser’s Hill and Genting Highlands, comprises primarily elderly residents and children, with many young adults from the sleepy town tending to seek employment opportunities elsewhere.
It is well-known for its ecotourism, offering various exciting recreational destinations such as the Kuala Kubu Baharu Paragliding Park, Chiling Waterfalls and breathtaking hill views.
On weekends, the town attracts numerous cyclists for their regular rides, while bird enthusiasts also often flock to the area for bird-watching.
The Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election was triggered following Lee’s death on March 21.
In the last state election in August last year, Lee won the seat with a 4,119 majority, garnering 14,862 total votes against PN’s Teoh Kien Hong (10,743 votes), Muda’s R. Siva Prakash (1,186 votes), and PRM’s Chng Boon Lai (527 votes).
The Election Commission has set May 11 as polling day, with early voting scheduled for May 7.
According to the latest electoral roll by EC, Kuala Kubu Baharu has 40,226 registered voters consisting of 39,362 ordinary voters, 625 policemen, 238 military personnel and spouses, and one overseas absentee voter.
The state constituency comprises approximately 46 per cent Malay voters, 30 per cent Chinese, 18 per cent Indian, and 5 per cent voters of other ethnicities.
