About 4.9 million Malaysian citizens of 21 years and above risk being unqualified to vote in the 12th General Election (GE) which may be called anytime or latest by June 2009. According to the Election Commission (EC), about 4.9 million qualified citizens have not registered with the commission, hence, they will have to do so by August this year should the election is called in December this year as the EC needs between 3 to 4 months to verify new voters registration before the updated list is gazetted.
Any citizens above the age of 21 may register at any online post offices throughout the country, which is the most convenient way to register. Existing voters who would like to update their address can also do so in post offices. I personally urge all citizens who are 21 and above to register with the EC as soon as possible so as not to miss the opportunity to exercise rights as a Malaysian citizen to decide on the future of the country.
Some information suggested that the GE could be held in July or August, thereby, these 4.9 million would not be able to vote at all. Other possible dates are after Hari Raya Aidilfitri (probably November or December) and after Chinese New Year in 2008. Throughout the nation’s history, the ruling government never waited for the completion of the 5-year term to call for an election. Usually, an election is called just after 4 years. The last election was held on 21 March 2004.
