Kuala lumpur: The Election Commission (EC) has called on voters who have relocated to update their voting addresses to reflect their current places of residence. This move aims to ensure that elected representatives truly represent the communities in which they serve.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, EC deputy chairman Dr. Azmi Sharom emphasized the importance of this action due to Malaysia's constituency-based democratic system. He highlighted that it is crucial for voters to elect State Assemblymen (ADUN) or Members of Parliament (MP) who represent the areas where they live. "Vote where we live. Not only is it more convenient, but our system of government is based on an ADUN or MP representing the residents of a particular area," he said during an appearance on Bernama Radio's Fokus 30 programme.
Dr. Azmi pointed out that voters must first update the address on their identity cards before changing their voting address, a process now available online. The electoral roll is updated monthly, allowing for quicker processing of address changes compared to the previous quarterly update cycle.
While acknowledging that some voters might have sentimental ties to their hometowns, Dr. Azmi stressed the importance of updating voting addresses to maintain the integrity of the constituency-based representation system. He noted that this ensures that voters have a direct say in who represents their current localities.
Regarding preparations for upcoming state elections, Dr. Azmi shared that arrangements for the Johor state polls scheduled for July 11 are nearly complete, with only final logistical matters pending. Meanwhile, preparations for the Negeri Sembilan state election are still in the early stages, with the nomination process yet to occur and ballot papers still to be printed.
In closing, Dr. Azmi expressed gratitude towards election workers for their role in facilitating a smooth electoral process, mentioning that over 43,000 personnel will be deployed for the Johor state election and more than 15,000 for the Negeri Sembilan polls.