Use AI, other modern tech to enhance polls process, govt told

Malaysia Internet-of-Things Association says using new technologies can help reduce reliance on manual labour, speed up voting and vote-counting processes, and minimise risks for error or fraud.

Malaysia Internet-of-Things Association recommended improving the voter management system by incorporating facial recognition and biometric technology to prevent identity fraud and speed up voter verification.

PETALING JAYA: 

A tech group has urged the government to consider using artificial intelligence and other modern digital systems to help the Election Commission conduct polling more efficiently, transparently and cost effectively.

Malaysia Internet-of-Things Association treasurer Pathmanathan Muniandy said AI, big data analytics, smart logistics systems and electronic voting machines could transform the electoral process, Bernama reported.

“For example, the government allocated RM2.5 million for the Ayer Kuning state by-election, while a parliamentary by-election such as in Pulai cost around RM4.5 million.

“If these technologies are optimally utilised, such costs can be significantly reduced without compromising the integrity or transparency of the electoral process,” he said in a statement.

While acknowledging that the initial implementation may require substantial investment, he said it would be a long-term cost-saving measure by reducing reliance on manual labour, speeding up voting and vote-counting processes and minimising risks for error or fraud.

Pathmanathan also proposed the use of vending machine-style self-service kiosks as electronic ballot boxes capable of automatically counting votes once the voting period ends.

“This would not only save time and manpower but also enhance transparency and reduce the need for physical counting centres. It would also help improve voter privacy.”

He said digital systems could also prevent issues such as power outages or blackouts, which often spark speculation when election results are delayed.

However, he said the rollout of such systems must be carefully considered, especially in terms of cybersecurity, digital infrastructure and public confidence in new technologies.

Pathmanathan further recommended improving the voter management system by incorporating facial recognition and biometric technology to prevent identity fraud and speed up voter verification.

“Digital transformation in election governance is not about replacing human involvement, but about supporting and strengthening the existing system with more efficient and effective technology,” he said. - FMT