KUALA LUMPUR – The UndiRabu group of ordinary Malaysians who banded together to fundraise and help voters return home to cast their ballots in 2018’s 14th general election is back in action – this time for the 15th general election (GE15), which will take place near monsoon season.
Renamed UndiBanjir 2022, the initiative aims to help university students and first-time voters secure transportation back to their hometowns to vote, by collecting donations from the public, said Alzari “Joey” Mahshar, a spokesman for the group.
The funds will be used to subsidise transportation fees for those unable to afford transportation back home so that they are not discouraged from voting, he told The Vibes.
He also said the effort is solely on a trust basis.
“Those who wish to receive financial assistance for their travels back home, are only required to fill up an online form with their basic details.
“The group will not do any extensive background investigations to give funds to requestors,” Alzari said.
“The only requirements are the applicants’ full name, identification card number, other contact details, mode of transportation, and the voting state,” he added.
Another form is available for individuals who wish to donate.
Alzari said there is no set amount that donors should give, and that the trust basis extends to them as well. They also have the option to remain anonymous in the form.
“There is no minimum or maximum amount that people can donate, this is purely citizens taking care of other citizens,” he said.
While the initiative is open to anyone needing subsidised transportation to return home to vote, he said the main targets are first-time voters, youth, and university students.
“This is to encourage the younger generation to vote during elections.
“We need to educate them that voting is important for future generations. It is a responsibility,” he added.
Alzari said information about the UndiBanjir 2022 initiative will be spread through social media and word-of-mouth. More information can be found in this Twitter thread.
In 2018, UndiRabu, which was formed by volunteers including Alzari, received a massive response, with about RM200,000 collected that was used to help over 3,000 Malaysians return to their hometowns to vote. – The Vibes, October 16, 2022
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