KULAI: Living with cerebral palsy did not stop first-time voter Lia Isabella Iskandar Nain from exercising her democratic right in the Johor election.
The 20-year-old, affectionately known as Bella, arrived at the polling centre in high spirits, determined to cast her vote despite the physical challenges she faces.
Bella was accompanied by her caregiver, Salihaton Awang, 52, who said the young voter had been looking forward to polling day for weeks.
“From the very beginning, Bella was eager to vote. She got ready early because she couldn’t wait to come to the polling centre.”
Salihaton said that Bella had repeatedly expressed her enthusiasm to participate in the electoral process, making polling day a milestone for the young woman.
The pair arrived at the polling centre at SJK(C) Kulai Besar early yesterday morning where Bella cheerfully made her way into the polling station.
Her presence also highlighted the importance of ensuring polling centres remain accessible and welcoming to voters with disabilities.
Throughout the polls, election officials were on hand to facilitate voting for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, helping to ensure they could cast their ballots comfortably.
In SIMPANG RENGGAM, first-time voter Wong Wee Xiang cast his maiden ballot at SJK(C) Tuan Poon.
With help from his mother, the 20-year-old blind voter arrived at the polling centre around 9.15am.
“I told my mother who I wanted to vote for and she marked the ballot paper for me.
“I am very happy now that I have fulfilled my responsibility,” he said after casting his ballot.
Wong said the process was “very smooth”.
He praised the special arrangements for persons with disabilities, saying they made the voting process easier.
“There is a dedicated lane for us and we also get priority to vote first.”
