PORT DICKSON: Before she starts another shift at the launderette, 79-year-old Cheok Yock Moi has one important errand to complete – to vote.
For Cheok, heading to the polling centre before work has become an election-day tradition, allowing her to fulfil her civic duty before getting on with the rest of her day.
“We want to earn a living without depending on others, which is why I am still choosing to work at this age.
“At the same time, voting is something we cannot skip because it is our responsibility. That is why I will vote first before going to work,” she said.
Cheok is among thousands of senior citizens across Negri Sembilan who remain committed to exercising their democratic rights.
Election Commission figures show there are about 305,902 registered voters aged 50 and above in the state.
For 69-year-old M. Chinnah-amah, who also works at a laundromat, voting early simply makes the day easier.
“At least we can get on with our daily tasks without worrying about it. I am also heading to work right after voting,” she said.
“It is not every day we get the chance to vote, so when the time comes, I want to have my say.”
A 64-year-old restaurant worker, who wanted to be known only as Timah, said she too would cast her ballot before clocking in.
“It is just what we do. Voting early gives us peace of mind because we don’t have to worry about rushing to the polling centre, especially if something unexpected happens later in the day,” she said.
A total of 103 candidates are vying for the 36 seats in the Negri Sembilan state assembly.
Pakatan Harapan is contesting all 36 seats, while Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional are fielding candidates in 25 and 11 seats respectively.
Bersatu is contesting 24 seats under its own logo, while Berjasa, Parti Orang Asli Malaysia and Parti Sosialis Malaysia are fielding one candidate each. Four Independents are also in the fray.
