Saravanan said the BN election machinery must be strengthened to secure the support of these young voters, who could be the kingmakers in the by-election.

“Fortunately, the Tapah BN Youth division has consistently organised youth-focused programmes. This (Tapah) is the only parliamentary constituency in the country that has initiated youth development efforts at the school level,” Utusan Malaysia quoted the Tapah MP as saying after a meeting today.

“When they reach Form Five, they also benefit from other youth development programmes.”

The Ayer Kuning seat fell vacant following the death of Umno assemblyman Ishsam Shahruddin on Feb 22.

Ishsam, who was the Tapah Umno chief, won the seat with a 2,213-vote majority in a five-cornered contest in the 15th general election.

Saravanan said BN will ramp up its programmes throughout Ramadan to attract Malay voters in the state constituency.

“In the past four elections, Malay voters have consistently given us strong support, making this constituency a BN stronghold.

“We have continuously contributed to the people of Ayer Kuning, regardless of religion, not just during elections.

“Our ties with the community are strong, and we are confident that we will once again earn the mandate of the Malay electorate,” he said.

Also present were MCA deputy president Mah Hang Soon and Tapah Umno acting chief Khairul Azmi Ghazali.