Outstation voters urged to return to cast their ballots
SUNGAI BESAR: Outstation Sungai Besar and Kuala Kangsar voters have been urged to return home to exercise their right and cast their ballot in the respective by- elections on June 18.
Election Commission chairman Datuk Seri Mohd Hashim Abdullah feared the turnout would only be about 75 per cent if outstation voters shy away from casting their ballot on that day.
Turnout in both the constituencies during the 13th general election was 88.30 per cent and 84.3 per cent respectively.
“We hope outstation voters would come back to vote as it is their responsibility to elect their representative; only if they do, can we expect the percentage to be higher,” he told a media conference after nominations closed at Dewan Seri Bernam here yesterday.
On the campaign period, Mohd Hashim said, “It officially starts as soon as nomination closes and ends at 12 midnight on June 17”.
He also disclosed that the Election Commission had formed two election campaign enforcement teams, as provided for under Section 27B of the Election Offences Act 1954.
The teams comprising police, local authorities, party representatives and agents would conduct patrols and monitor campaign activities in the two constituencies.
“The teams will take down campaign materials that are put up without conforming to regulations and stop campaign talks if the speakers do not have the relevant permit,” he stressed.
He said the EC had also appointed 10 local observers from non- governmental organisations.
“Hopefully, all parties would conduct their campaigns in a peaceful and harmonious environment to prevent any disturbance that could threaten public order and security of the country.
“EC also hoped the parties would abide by the regulations and campaign ethics, more so as it is Ramadan,” he said.
The by- election results are expected to be known by 9pm to 9.30pm.
Voters in the two constituencies may contact the EC headquarters in Putrajaya at 03- 88927000 or EC’s office in Selangor at 0355194273 to find out about their polling channel and centres.
“They can also do so through www.spr.gov.my or SMS by typing, SPR< space> SEMAK< space>IC Number and send to 15888,” he said. — Bernama