PETALING JAYA: The first familiar face many outstation voters see on polling day is not always an election official, but an old school friend they have not met in years.
While they may support different political parties, many say their friendships have endured and that the journey home is about more than just casting their ballots.
For teacher Mohd Zaid Idrus, 44, returning to Jelebu to vote in the Chennah state constituency is more than a civic duty – it is also an opportunity to spend time with his family.
“I want to enjoy the atmosphere of voting together with my family. My vote is important because it helps determine the future of the people in my hometown,” he said.
Mohd Zaid said he did not have the opportunity to spend time with his family when he cast his postal vote while serving as an Election Commission officer during the 2022 General Election and the 2023 state election.
Now living in Bandar Tasik Puteri, Selangor, he recalled meeting up with former classmates during the 2018 General Election.
“We had not met in years but we have remained friends. Each of us may have different political views but when we meet, we simply catch up and reminisce about our school days,” he said.
Sales consultant Norfaezah Abd Razak, 40, from Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, shared a similar sentiment, saying she would be returning to vote in Sikamat while also catching up with former classmates.
She said her fondest election memory had little to do with politics, but everything to do with reconnecting with old friends.
“I met my primary school friends at the polling centre during the previous state election.
“We had not seen each other in years and it felt like a mini school reunion,” she said.
Healthcare worker Mazni Ishak, 47, who lives in Subang Jaya, Selangor, said the trip back to Juasseh was always worthwhile despite the time and cost.
While fulfilling her civic duty is her main motivation, Mazni said polling day also gives her an opportunity to return to her hometown and spend time with family and relatives.
“The best part of polling day is being able to return to my hometown, spend time with my family and fulfil my responsibility as a voter at the same time,” she said.
All three hope those elected will form a state government that prioritises attracting investments, improving infrastructure and creating more well-paying jobs and opportunities, particularly for young people.
