MELAKA: A hip injury that left him unable to stand did little to dampen the determination of a 70-year-old man to exercise his democratic right in the Bukit Katil state constituency.
Yusof Taib, who has relied on a wheelchair for the past 16 years, was among those who turned out to cast their ballots at Sekolah Kebangsaan Jalan Datuk Palembang in Bukit Baru.
With the Jalur Gemilang draped over the back of his wheelchair, the Kampung Paya Ikan native cast his vote at about 8am.
Several members of the media later lent him a helping hand by accompanying him home to nearby Lorong Kaloi.
He urged all eligible voters to play their part in determining Melaka’s future.
“Everyone should exercise their right to vote and play their part in choosing the best leaders for Melaka.”
He also expressed hope that the elected leaders would bring greater progress to the state while continuing to safeguard the welfare of its people.
Meanwhile, in Alor Gajah, Lew Chee Phin and Tan Siw Choo were among the early arrivals at their polling station, turning up at 7am, an hour before voting began in the 16th Melaka election.
Speaking to reporters outside Sekolah Kebangsaan Jeram in Masjid Tanah, Lew, 66, said he and his wife had been up since 5am to vote in the Tanjung Bidara state constituency.
“I could barely sleep last night because I was so excited to vote. We are also happy that all three of our children returned home to fulfil their civic duty,” he said.
