Suhakam urges EC to address postal voting problems

 

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) today urged the Election Commission (EC) to address problems with postal voting, which it said can impede overseas voters from participating in national and state polls.

In a statement, Suhakam chairperson Rahmat Mohamad said the commission was concerned about the issues and identified some challenges faced by overseas voters.

“Suhakam has identified several challenges, including the high cost associated with postal voting, difficulties in receiving and returning the ballot papers, a limited registration period for overseas postal voters, and the relatively short duration of election campaigns.

“These challenges have the potential to hinder overseas voters from timely receipt and return of their ballot papers, thus impeding their participation in the electoral process,” he said.

Rahmat said Suhakam noted the government’s efforts in improving the country’s voting process, which led to a huge increase in postal voting applications from 7,979 for the 14th general election in 2018 to 48,109 during last year’s general election.

However, he said, while the progress is commendable, the EC still has to address other issues that persist, especially as six state elections are drawing near.

“With the state elections drawing near, Suhakam emphasises the urgency of addressing these issues before the election takes place.

“The protection of the rights of Malaysians residing abroad is imperative, and appropriate measures must be implemented to facilitate their seamless exercise of the right to vote,” he said. - Mkini