Time to end the instability

MALAYSIANS go to the polls today in what could be the most crucial election since the first General Election in 1955.

While the first election set the country on the path to nationhood, the 15th General Election is very important to bring the country back on track after four years of tumult.

We have seen governments fall mid-stream, we have seen three prime ministers in such a short period, and we have seen much fighting and infighting.

Then, there was the Covid-19 pandemic that wrecked so many lives and wreaked havoc on the economy, leaving many jobless with some even forced to fly the white flag to get food.

We have been forced to live through an emergency, movement control orders, to wear masks and isolate ourselves.

We have seen the ringgit fall to new lows, no thanks to the US Federal Reserve, and prices rising due to that.

What we need now is good leadership to guide the country out of this quagmire. We need people who will put aside politicking and infighting and concentrate on rebuilding the nation.

We need a stable government. For the last two weeks or so, the politicians have been loud in giving all sorts of offers to the people.

Anything is possible when they are on stage. But what is important is: Can they deliver?

They may promise the moon and the stars, but voters have to look beyond the rhetoric.

They have to see who will keep their promises and who can provide the answers to the problems we face. The people have to vote wisely, with clear heads and consciences.

At the end of today, we need a good government in place for the next five years.

The decision is ours – as Malaysians – to make. We, as the people, have to come out and vote.

The monsoon season may not be the best time to hold elections but it’s not the first time Malaysia has gone to the polls during year end.

It has been raining regularly and there have been flash floods here and there, but that should not deter us. Come prepared. Bring your umbrellas and raincoats.

Ensure that your homes are safe, with all important documents placed in high, safe places.

Remember, even with almost all restrictions lifted, the Covid-19 virus has not gone away, so mask up and have sanitisers ready.

Check your voting stations on the MYSPR Semak portal early and ensure you know where to go.

The Election Commission (EC) has given suggested times to prevent congestion and it would be good to abide by them, but these are

not binding.

So just come out and vote. It would be best if citizens go early to the polling stations to ensure they get to cast their votes.

In GE14, many people were unable to vote as the polling stations were closed even as they were waiting in line.

With an increase of more than six million voters since then, the EC has now extended polling time by an hour to 6pm. But that is no excuse to dally.

We have to exercise our rights. Our future depends on it.

Rain or no rain, with 1.4 million new young voters, this promises to be a watershed election.

Let’s just hope it will also bring a brighter future.