By Balqis Jazimah Zahari
Focusing on resolving community issues down to the grassroots and staying close to the community, is Wong Chai Yi’s working philosophy.
Chai Yi, who has served as the special officer to the Member of Parliament for Gopeng since 2010, has long been involved in community welfare work and public programmes.
“When I was entrusted with the role of State Assembly Member (ADUN) for Simpang Pulai, I continued that commitment more systematically, going to the ground almost every day and listening directly to the people’s problems.
“From small issues such as street lights, clogged drains, and flash floods, to major issues like urban planning, air pollution, utilities, safety, food security, and education development.
“I’ve learned that every issue requires patience, inter-agency coordination, and swift action. This journey has shaped how I work today,” she said.
Sharing about her early journey, she revealed that she was already active during her university days in student movements, advocating for positive change in Malaysia, particularly in the areas of politics and public policy.
“When one problem is solved, even if small, the impact is immediately felt by the people.
“My goal is clear and it is to build a safe, organised, progressive, and inclusive constituency, where every resident feels heard, valued, and protected,” she added.
She said that since she began serving, hundreds of issues involving infrastructure, drainage, public health, safety, and welfare have been resolved.
According to her, among the most impactful achievements were efforts to address flash flood issues in the area. These included the upgrading of the Jalan Gopeng drainage system by JKR in front of Taman Song Choon; the widening and desilting of Sungai Pinji by JPS; as well as drainage upgrades in Hillview, Gunung Rapat, and Bandar Cyber.
In addition, several community and recreational facilities were enhanced, including the construction of Taman Rekreasi Madani Rapat Setia, the upgrading of the jogging track at Pulai Heights, Medan Lapangan Lagenda and Gunung Rapat, further improving the quality of life for residents in the area.
She added that within the next five years, her key target is to establish a Health Clinic near the densely populated housing areas around Bandar Seri Botani.
