KUALA LUMPUR – The Election Commission (EC) will be updating its electoral roll to accommodate approximately 1.2 million new voters aged between 18 to 21 by January 16.
According to the Malay Mail, EC deputy chairman Azmi Sharom said the full implementation of the automatic voters’ registration system, which enables those aged 18 and above to vote, will result in an addition of 5.8 million voters in any election held after the said date.
“Out of the 5.8 million new voters, there are approximately 1.2 million from the Undi18 bloc, while the remaining are 21 and above,” he was quoted saying in an interview.
The updated electoral roll will see the number of registered voters in Malaysia increase from the current 15.8 million to 21.1 million voters, which is about 40%.
He said that besides those in prison and mental hospitals, every Malaysian aged 18 and above will be able to participate in any election held without having to undergo the manual registration process due to the automatic registration system.
Those in prison and mental hospitals or have lost their citizenship are not permitted to vote according to the federal constitution.
Azmi also highlighted that in order to avoid any objections during their participation in the election, those eligible must ensure their MyKads must provide their current registered address.
“You can log into MySPR Semak, to cross-check your eligibility online.
“All you have to do is to key in your IC number and you will be able to see your particulars along with your voting district, constituency, etc,” he was quoted as saying.
He added that for those who cannot find their names on the website, it could be because they do not have a clear address on their MyKad.
If such instances occur, Azmi advises those affected to get in touch with the EC so that they may be included in the electoral roll.
On September 3, the Kuching High Court ruled that the government must implement Undi18 and the related amendments by December 31, following a judicial review application.
The decision comes after Sarawakian youth initiated a judicial review action against the prime minister, federal government, and EC.
This decision may allow eight million new voters aged between 18 and 20 to take part in the 15th general election expected to be held next year.
A ruling on the same matter will be made on October 21 at the Kuala Lumpur High Court, where 18 youths have filed a similar judicial review application. – The Vibes, January 12, 2022
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