GE15: Every vote counts, says Defence Minister on eve of early voting

PETALING JAYA: With early voting taking place on Tuesday (Nov 15), military personnel and their families have the right and responsibility to ensure the stability and prosperity of the country, says Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.

The caretaker Defence Minister, in a video message to Armed Forces personnel, said he hoped everyone came out to vote.

"Every vote counts in determining the government for the next five years, so make the smart decision.

"Choose a candidate and party with a proven track record and great achievements. This should be a prudent aspect to be considered.

"Make sure the good name of the Armed Forces is upheld. Lead by example.

"Come out early if possible and maintain discipline during the voting process," Hishammuddin, who is also the Sembrong MP, said in a video posted on Facebook on Monday (Nov 14).

He also said the early voting process involving Armed Forces personnel and their spouses as gazetted in the electoral roll involved 146,737 voters.

"Happy voting to all military personnel and their families nationwide," he said.

On Sunday (Nov 13), Defence Forces Chief General Tan Sri Affendi Buang said early voting for army personnel who are registered postal voters began on Nov 7 after they received ballot papers issued by the respective returning officers in their constituencies.

Affendi said the postal voting process will continue until 5pm on Saturday (Nov 19).

There are 153 Armed Forces early voting centres gazetted by the Election Commission (EC).