Johor polls: Covid-19 patients disappointed over inability to vote

JOHOR BARU – Covid-19 patients had to forget about casting their votes in the Johor election to choose a new state government today, to focus on their health recovery.

However, some opined that the Health Ministry (MoH) and Election Commission should have considered setting up a polling channel at the Low-Risk Quarantine and Treatment Centres (PKRCs).

Norjihan Sukaraman, 24, a registered voter for the state seat of Bukit Pasir, Pagoh said she was raring to vote in this state election but had contracted Covid-19 two days ahead of polling day.

“I asked my parents on the voting process; what I should do, which document to bring so that when I reach the polling centre, I would know what to do.

“I was so excited to vote after reaching adulthood and also about meeting my former schoolmates on polling day as they would also be voting there. Perhaps I will have the chance to vote in the next election, God willing,” she said when contacted, here, today.

Norshahida Mohd Zani, 25, who should be voting in the Larkin constituency, said she was excited to vote following the fielding of many young candidates and participation of new political parties in this state election.

“I read the manifesto of each contesting party. I felt the Johor election would be exciting with the fielding of several young candidates. Previously, we would be seeing the same old faces.

“It’s regrettable that I am not able to vote. Initially, I thought the PKRC here would open a voting channel for its patients. But it was not to be. I feel sad as I have been looking forward to casting my vote,” she said.

Norhayati Samsudin, 60, who should also have voted in Larkin, agreed with Norshahida’s view that the relevant authorities could have considered opening a polling centre at the PKRCs involved.

“This is to enable Covid-19 patients to carry out their responsibility of voting in a democratic society.

“It’s a disappointment not to be able to vote this time. Previously, I never missed voting at election time. I was very enthusiastic to vote. So, I hope MoH and the EC can think of a way for people like us, quarantined at the PKRC, to cast our votes,” she said. – Bernama, March 12, 2022