PONTIAN: Norma Mohamed, 67, still remembers talking to her son, former deputy minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Dr Md Farid Md Rafik, moments before he died.
She recalled how her son spoke passionately about his plans to develop Tanjung Piai, what he had in store for the constituency and who he wished to meet to pursue his projects.
On Sept 21, Dr Farid was scheduled to meet several stakeholders from Tanjung Piai until 4am and he was worried the plans would not materialise in time.
Dr Farid died later in the morning on the same day from heart complications. He was 42.
“He did not show any symptoms. We had a conversation the night before and then, I went to sleep. I had no idea that would be the last time that I spoke with him,” she said at her house in Kampung Serkat here recently.
Dr Farid was much loved by his constituents for his vision and dedication.
“He refused to only listen to his family and officers. He would always go around Tanjung Piai and hang out with the people because he wanted to hear what the people actually wanted.
“When it comes to executing new projects, he would always push those involved so everything could be done on schedule.
“Although he didn’t get to see his plans completed, I am sure he would want them to be carried out by the new MP,” she said.
After Dr Farid’s death, the Election Commission announced that a by-election would be held on Nov 16.
Pakatan Harapan named Karmaine Sardini, the Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia Tanjung Piai division chief, as its candidate.
Norma believed Karmaine could continue her son’s legacy.
“I hope the voters would choose wisely because my son had made so many plans. The only way they will be carried out is by making sure that the PH candidate wins. He (Karmaine) is a good leader.
“The opposition won’t be able to deliver if they win, and the people will end up with nothing if that is the case.
“Please, don’t gamble away Tanjung Piai and our future simply because of our political ego. Think carefully,” she said.
Early voting is on Nov 12.
The by-election will see a six-cornered fight. The other candidates are Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng (Barisan Nasional), Wendy Subramaniam (Gerakan), Datuk Dr Badhrulhisham Abdul Aziz (Berjasa) and two independent candidates Dr Ang Chuan Lock and Faridah Aryani Abd Ghani.