KUCHING: The Election Commission (EC) has made a wise decision to set Nov 19, as the polling day; however, it would be better if the government can consider declaring it as a public holiday in the future.
Pertubuhan Pembangunan Insan Sarawak President Manjeet Sidhu said Saturday is a good choice, so many people can go out to vote, but, there are still some businesses and sectors which operate on Saturday.
“So, I hope that the government can declare it as a public holiday in future for an easier and smoother process. Otherwise, some might have to rush back to work after casting their vote,” she told New Sarawak Tribune.
“We also appreciate the EC for making the announcement today (Oct 20) without further delay, which allows the voters, especially those who need to return to their villages to vote; to have sufficient time to make all necessary arrangements,” she added.
Sarawakians, she said, should start making their plans and if possible, travel home earlier, to avoid heavy traffic as well as the monsoon season, where low-lying areas might be flooded.
As for the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government, she said, the state ruiling coalition should have done all the preparations to ensure a smooth election process in Sarawak, since the state election was held during the year-end (December last year) too.
Meanwhile, Purplelily Social Association Kuching Chairperson Suraya Bujang has urged all the registered voters, especially the first time voters to perform their duties as a responsible citizen as every vote counts.
“It is good that the voting date is on Saturday as it gives the opportunity for more people to vote, compared to having the polling day on a weekday,” she said.
Apart from that, she said, it is hoped that more women candidates will be nominated by all political parties and a fair campaigning platform for the women candidates by all media especially in Sarawak.
“I wish the political parties will not purposefully field women candidates against each other and in seats that are not winnable. Looking forward to monitoring a clean election campaign and voting process,” she said.
