Communication between leaders and the people could be further improved through regular meet-the-people sessions and not merely in the run up to elections, said Communication and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

He said this practice would enable leaders to get to know the people better and identify their problems and aid needed.

"Anyway, it's now merrier with the Sungai Limau state by-election campaign around the corner," he said after taking part in a 'Ziarah Kasih' motorcycle convoy programme in four villages in Sungai Limau on Saturday.

Expressing his satisfaction over the support shown by youths to the programme, he described them as the Barisan Nasional (BN) backbone and hoped the enthusiasm would be a lasting phenomenon in the quest to prepare them as future leaders.

Ahmad Shabery and Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Mukhriz Tun Dr Mahathir later dropped by at Warung Bihun Sup in Kampung Setia Jaya.
 
Dr Ahmad Sohaimi Lazim of the BN is facing Mohd Azam Abdul Samat of PAS in the Sungai Limau state by-election on Monday.