First-time voters to be careful to make their ballots count

A file image of a voters finger being dipped into indelible ink as part of voting procedure during the previous general election.

MESSAGES on purported “do’s and don’ts” during polling day have surfaced on social media, causing uncertainty, especially among first-time voters.

Among the messages that are being spread include a description of how to mark a ballot paper so that it will not be counted as a spoilt vote.

Another message “warns” people that the government could impose a dress code for polling stations to prevent underdressed people from casting their ballots.

In a press statement issued last Wednesday, Election Commission chairman Tan Sri Mohd Hashim Abdullah urged the public not to be easily influenced by unconfirmed viral messages from unknown sources.

He said these messages were meant to confuse voters on the polling process and create negative perception towards the EC.

He also urged the people to clarify any uncertaintities with the EC.

Fong says she wasn’t aware of all the procedures for casting her vote until recently.

A personal assistant, who only wished to be known as Joey said she became anxious after coming across the messages.

“I got these messages from my friends and relatives. Even my parents also told me to be careful during polling day.

“It is my first time casting my vote and I really do not know what to expect on that day as these messages are creating doubt,” she said.

“I do not want to have my vote spoilt or be kicked out from the polling station,” she added.

Joey, in her 30s, said she has spoken to some of her peers who have voted before and was told not to worry too much.

“Most of them just told me to adhere to the instructions given by the Election Commission (EC) workers at the polling stations and I’ll be fine.

“They also told me to remember my MyKad as it is the most important thing to bring,” she said.

““I will also be decently dressed to avoid the possibility of being refused entry into the polling centres,” she added.

Senior community manager Rachel Fong, 26, also says she felt some doubt after coming across the messages.

“I am not sure if there are really such rulings. Anyway, I think I’m mentally prepared and will go through the basic rules again before polling day.

“I will be careful not to paint my nails or wear shirts showing a particular political party,” she said..

“I think they’re all reasonable and I shouldn’t have any problems on the day itself,” she added.

Kan says this will be his first time voting and he is ready to perform his civic duty.

Fong said she would observe courteous behaviour during polling day.

“I am aware of what needs to be done. I understand it’s most important to make sure my ballot paper is free of any scrawls or stains, and to mark the ‘X’ well within the box,” she said.

Online marketer Andrew Kan, in his 30s, also said he would not be taking any risks by wearing proper attire.

“I’ve read the message about the dress code. I’m not sure if it’s true. However, I will go wearing long pants and shoes and definitely not wearing slippers, just to be sure,” he said.

Although this will be his first time at the polls, Kan said he is looking forward to cast his vote on May 9.

“I think we are all mature enough to be calm.

“It will be just like any normal day, but one that requires an important decision to be made,” he said.

Another first-time voter, restaurant manager Jackie WC Chan, 36, said he is ready to cast his ballot.

“I pretty much have in mind of what I should do that day. I’ll probably be excited during that day but as long as I follow the instructions, I think I will be fine,” he said.

“I’ll also make sure I won’t get my ballot paper stained with the indelible ink,” he added.