Mother, Baby & Kids

GE15: Everything You Need to Know

Zakwan Shah
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GE15 is around the corner!

General elections are always an exciting time for Malaysians. It only happens once every four years and we all get to go back to our hometowns to cast our votes for Malaysia’s new leader.

But because of how rare they are, you may need to refresh your memory on what you should do if you’re planning on voting this year, even if you’ve done so before. This article will assist both the first-time voters and returning ones.

Malaysia’s 15th General Election (or GE15) will take place this Saturday on 19 November 2022. Here are some things that you need to do in preparation of this memorable day in history.

Local Voters

Now, all Malaysians become registered voters as soon as they reach the age of 18. Unlike before, no registration is needed prior anymore even if you’re a first-timer.

Voters can check their polling station and other important details through the MySPR Semak portal, the SPR mobile app, or by calling the SPR hotline (+603 8892 7200). If you’re checking your status on the MySPR Semak portal, simply key in your identity card (MyKad) number and solve the captcha.

Besides a section that lets you check your polling location, you also get your recommended voting time, as well as your own personal details and your ‘Saluran’ number. The portal also has a section where you can ‘Check Your Candidates’ (Semakan Calon Pilihan Raya).

Postal Voters

Postal voters have the privilege of voting off-site, without being present at any of the designated polling venues. This is to accommodate overseas voters (and some domestic ones) to cast their votes a few days earlier than the election day.

Overseas

Malaysians who are living, working or studying overseas can still do their part for their country. This is through postal voting. But first you need to apply online after creating an SPR account. [Note: being registered as a voter does not mean you already have an SPR account.] 

To register, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the MySPR Daftar portal and click on ‘Permohonan Akaun Baharu’.
  2. Fill in the details they request (name, MyKad number, birthday, etc)
  3. Upload a photo of your MyKad and a selfie. This is for verification purposes. Solve the captcha and click ‘Agree’ to the terms and conditions.
  4. SPR will send you a confirmation email afterwards. Click on the link provided to obtain a TAC number. Use this code to activate your account.

Next, follow the below steps:

  1. Apply for a postal vote according to your group. For overseas voting, choose ‘Kategori 1B’. Your ballot will be sent a few days before polling day.
  2. Once you get your ballot, ensure the serial number on the ballot paper is identical as in Form 2 and envelope ‘A’. Mark the ballot paper and put it into envelope ‘A’. Seal envelope ‘A’.
  3. Read carefully the ‘instructions to voters’ on the back of Form 2 and complete the form.
  4. Put Form 2 and envelope ‘A’ containing the ballot paper into envelope ‘B’. Seal envelope ‘B’.
  5. Mail your ballot via your country’s courier service.

(Note: Do ensure that your mailing address is correct as your ballot will be posted to the address provided).

You will then have to deliver your marked ballot via courier service at your own cost. Post the ballot as soon as you have filled it in before the deadline.

Domestic

Unfortunately, only a select few are allowed to register for postal voting within the country. These groups include police, armed forces, disaster relief, healthcare officers, the media, prison wards and SPR officers. If you don’t fit into these criteria, then you either have to travel back to your hometown or change your address.

Otherwise, if you are eligible for domestic postal voting, the instructions are the same as per Kategori 1B except you will be choosing Kategori 1A or 1C, depending on your criteria.

The last step is a bit different because it will involve mailing the ballot locally through Pos Laju or returning it directly to the Returning Officer.

Polling Day Do’s and Don’ts

Do

  • Bring your MyKad (I.C.)
  • Make sure your nails are clean (skip that manicure)
  • Check your voting ballots for the serial number and certified stamp

Don’t

  • Wear attire or carry items with logos of political parties on them
  • Bring mobile phones into polling stations
  • Take or bring ballot papers from polling stations
  • Loiter around polling stations after casting your ballot
  • Share a photo of your vote on social media

How to Vote

Here’s how the voting process will go down during election day. If you’re confused at any point or need help, just engage one of the SPR officers and volunteers standing nearby.

  1. Queue up at your polling station as directed by the SPR officers.
  2. Ushers will check your name, give you a ballot and mark your finger with ink (make sure it’s your left one)
  3. Ensure there are no markings on your ballot as this will disqualify your vote. Call the EC officer if you noticed any markings on your ballot.
  4. Mark an X in the column next to your chosen candidate to vote. Ensure not to accidentally draw out of the box.
  5. Place the ballot slip into the ballot box.

Cast Your Votes!

So that’s all you need to know for election day. Make sure you follow the rules and you’ll be good to go. Let’s all play our parts in shaping a better country for our children. Go out and vote, mums and dads!

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