KOTA KINABALU: More calls are growing for the Election Commission to extend postal voting to an estimated 200,000 Sabahans working or studying in Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak.
Vote Wisely, coordinator Angie S. Chin suggests using a Digital Pre-Registration system for Out-of-State Sabahans, where eligible voters can apply via MySPR or designated state liaison offices, and their applications are verified using their IC address or employer or university confirmation.
The movement also suggested setting up designated Ballot Centres in major towns and cities and appointing official collection and drop-off points in Klang Valley, Johor Bahru, Kuching and Penang. These places could be managed in collaboration with Sabahan associations, universities and NGOs, under EC supervision.
“If we can bank, study, and work online — surely we can find a way to let Sabahans vote safely and fairly from where they are,” Chin added
The movement has set up an online petition for the public to support postal voting for out-of-base Sabahans here.
She said that under current regulations, postal voting was limited only to members of the security forces (army and police) and overseas Malaysians.
Separately, Sabah DAP youth wing (DAPSY) chief Chan Loong Wei also appealed to the Election Commission (EC) to extend postal voting eligibility within Malaysia, as it was a practical step to allow Sabahans to vote.
“If Malaysians overseas can vote by post, it is only logical that Malaysians within the same country should be given the same right,” he added.
He said that postal voting was an established and proven system, already utilised by Malaysians abroad, the security forces, and government personnel.
He recommended that the Election Commission modernise and digitise the process by allowing online applications, ensuring transparent verification, and facilitating secure tracking.
