PASIR GUDANG: After nearly two decades of waiting, a 75-year-old man finally fulfilled his dream of casting a ballot in Malaysia during the 16th Johor election.
For Supaid Karmat (pic), polling day marked a milestone as he voted for the first time as a Malaysian citizen.
The former Singaporean, who obtained Malaysian citizenship in 2024, described the experience as emotional and unforgettable after having his finger marked with indelible ink.
Supaid said he had spent years accompanying his wife and children to polling stations without being able to vote himself.
“For decades, my role was simply to drive my wife and children to the polling station. Every time I watched them walk in to cast their votes, I prayed that one day my turn would come too.
“The feeling is extraordinary and deeply meaningful. After applying for Malaysian citizenship about 20 years ago, I can finally stand inside a polling station as a true Malaysian citizen,” he said after casting his ballot at SK Taman Bukit Dahlia here yesterday.
He said the long wait made the opportunity to finally take part in the democratic process even more special.
Supaid added that although he previously held a different citizenship, the rest of his immediate family had long been Malaysians.
“My wife and all six of our children, who were born here, hold Malaysian citizenship. I was the only one with a different citizenship.”
Supaid described voting not only as a constitutional right, but also as a responsibility that every eligible citizen should cherish.
“I love Malaysia. It is a peaceful, prosperous and harmonious country where people from all walks of life can live together.”
The retiree expressed hope that the nation’s unity and stability would continue for generations to come.
“As an elderly Malaysian, I hope that the peace and harmony we enjoy today will endure and be passed on to our children and grandchildren,” he said.
