First-time candidate Soraya determined to make a difference

PETALING JAYA: First-time candidate Soraya Badaruddin has been making waves in Sungai Balang with her candid approach and reformist attitude.

The 31-year-old credits her maritime engineering background with having inspired her political journey.

“My journey into politics did not begin in a political office. It began at sea, in an industry, and in the communities I have served.

“Having worked in the maritime and oil and gas sectors, I witnessed how national policies directly affect ordinary Malaysians from fishermen and farmers, to small business owners and young graduates seeking meaningful employment,” the University of Southampton graduate told FMT.

“I came to realise that sustainable change cannot rely solely on the private sector. It also requires courageous public leadership and sound policymaking.” she said.

“I want to contribute my professional experience to build a stronger local economy, create quality jobs, and ensure that development reaches every community.”

She said the Parit Jawa and Pantai Leka areas have huge potential but need more development, including jetty renovations, boat-landing facilities, and the use of modern technology.

Entry into politics

Soraya first gained visibility as the deputy chief of PKR’s Srikandi wing, which is a vehicle for young women.

“I chose PKR because it reflects the Malaysia that I believe in, a nation built on justice, inclusivity, integrity, and equal opportunity.

“Coming from a professional background rather than a traditionally political one, I wanted to join a party that values competence, diversity, and reform.

“PKR has consistently championed institutional strengthening, economic empowerment, and social mobility regardless of race or background.

“Those principles resonate with me personally and professionally. They are the values I want to bring to Sungai Balang,” she said.

She said she admires leaders who possess both vision and the courage to implement meaningful reforms.

“In Malaysia, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim inspires me through his perseverance and commitment to institutional reform despite decades of political challenges.

“Professionally, I am also inspired by leaders in the global maritime and energy industries who understand that innovation, sustainability, and strategic thinking are essential in navigating an increasingly complex world.

“Leadership today is not about popularity. It is about making difficult decisions with integrity, building capable teams, and leaving institutions stronger than we found them,” she said.

Soraya said that serving has always been her priority, not seeking positions.

“When the party entrusted me with the responsibility of contesting Sungai Balang, I accepted it with humility and gratitude.

“As someone who has built a career in the maritime sector and community engagement, I believe leadership is about stepping forward when called upon to serve.

“I see this candidacy not as a personal achievement but as a responsibility to deliver meaningful outcomes for the people,” she said.

Sacrifices and challenges

She acknowledged that politics is an all-encompassing field with little time for rest.

“You have to make sacrifices, like time with family, children, finances, work, health and getting little sleep.

“My family is absolutely supportive. Politics demand enormous sacrifice not only from the candidate but from the entire family. I am fortunate to have a family that understands my commitment to public service and continues to support me throughout this journey.

“Their encouragement allows me to dedicate myself fully to serving the people of Sungai Balang while remaining grounded in the values that shaped me,” she said.

Women candidate quotas

Soraya supports the proposal requiring political parties to field at least 30% women candidates.

“Women make up nearly half of Malaysia’s population, and our representation should reflect that reality.

“However, I believe the objective goes beyond achieving numerical targets. We must create an ecosystem where capable women are given equal opportunities to lead, contribute, and compete on merit.

“As someone from the maritime and oil and gas industries, a sector traditionally dominated by men, I understand the importance of breaking barriers.

“Women should not be elected because they are women, but because they are capable leaders who deserve equal opportunities,” she said.

She said voter response has been encouraging with some moving experiences and changed perceptions.

However, there are times when she felt she was treated differently just because she is a woman.

“This included being looked down upon, negatively compared to male candidates, receiving comments about my appearance and having to prove my abilities to doubters,” she said.

Soraya also said that women candidates have to consider security when campaigning at night and juggle their time on the campaign trail with their commitment to their family or children.

Other reforms

Other reforms she would like to see are centred on economic resilience and future competitiveness.

“For Sungai Balang, I want to develop the constituency into a stronger maritime economic hub by strengthening fisheries, agro-based industries, tourism, logistics, and maritime services.

“Nationally, I believe Malaysia must accelerate investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), digital infrastructure, renewable energy, and high value industries so our young people are equipped for future careers.

“I also support continued institutional reforms that strengthen transparency, accountability, and public confidence in government,” she said.

She is also in favour of the recent move to restrict social media access for those under 16.

“I support stronger measures to protect children from online exploitation, cyberbullying, and harmful content.

“However, regulation alone is insufficient. We must also invest in digital literacy, parental education, and responsible platform governance.

“Young people today are digital natives, and our responsibility is to help them navigate the online world safely rather than simply limiting access,” she said, adding that a balanced approach is the most sustainable solution.

Competitive elections

Johor’s political mood isn’t easy to read. For a start there are shifting alliances and new parties. Voters also behaved differently in the March 2022 state election and the general election just eight months later.

“Johor’s voters have become increasingly discerning and no longer vote purely based on party loyalty. Instead, they evaluate candidates, leadership, national direction, and local issues independently in each election.

“The state election took place under unique circumstances with relatively low voter turnout. By the general election, national issues such as governance, economic recovery, and political stability had become much more prominent.

“Ultimately, Johoreans are pragmatic. They want leaders who can deliver results, create opportunities, and improve their quality of life.”

While saying she believes this election will be highly competitive, she declined to be drawn on predictions.

“Rather than making predictions, I prefer to focus on earning the trust of every voter through sincerity, hard work, and practical solutions.

“As the candidate for Sungai Balang, my commitment is clear to leverage my experience in the maritime and energy sectors, to create economic opportunities, strengthen local industries, empower our youth, and ensure that Sungai Balang becomes more competitive and prosperous.

“I am optimistic because I believe the people are looking for leaders who combine professional experience, integrity, and a genuine commitment to public service. If given the mandate, I intend to be that leader for Sungai Balang.”