Sandakan: A strong sense of duty to the nation motivated a member of the 15th Battalion of the General Operations Force (PGA) Sandakan to arrive early to cast his vote, despite being in a wheelchair, for the 17th Sabah State Election.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, today is early voting for the 17th Sabah polls, and Yally Pudon, 56, was already at the Early Voting Centre at the 15th Battalion of the General Operations Force (PGA) Sandakan to perform his duty when it opened at 8 am. For Yally, his physical limitations have never been an obstacle to fulfilling his responsibility as a Sabahan. He said showing up to vote was essential to ensuring that his voice is heard in the democratic process.

Yally emphasized the importance of voting, stating, “This is our responsibility as the people of Sabah and part of our desire to see the changes we want. We are free to choose the leaders we believe in.” He also encouraged other voters to participate in the upcoming polls on Nov 29.

Sharing his personal story, Yally mentioned that he was involved in an accident while returning from duty in 2004. His knee condition deteriorated since 2018, necessitating the use of a wheelchair. Despite these challenges, Yally remains undeterred in his commitment to voting.

Similarly, government pensioner Sarimah Durahman, 59, who arrived with her husband, a PGA member, believes that physical challenges should not prevent anyone from performing their civic duties. She expressed her determination to vote and encouraged others, especially young people, to participate in the election.

PGA 15th Battalion Commanding Officer, Acting Supt Wilynton Enchana Watt, reported that PGA personnel began gathering as early as 7 am to cast their votes. The commanding officer expressed hope for full participation from all officers, members, and their spouses.

Meanwhile, Returning Officer for the Gum-Gum, Sungai Manila, and Sungai Sibuga state constituencies, Imran Jagong Osman, noted that the early voting process has proceeded smoothly. He provided data indicating that there are 692 early voters from among the PGA personnel and their spouses for the Gum-Gum constituency, 558 for the Sungai Manila constituency, and 332 for the Sungai Sibuga state constituency.

The Election Commission (EC) has designated Nov 29 as the official polling day for the 17th Sabah polls.