The Malaysian Election Commission (EC) urged voters who have relocated to update their voting addresses to their current place of residence to ensure proper constituency representation in elections [1, 2, 3]. The EC emphasized that Malaysia’s democratic system is constituency-based, requiring voters to elect representatives for the area where they live rather than their hometowns [1, 2, 3].
Dr Azmi Sharom, EC deputy chairman, urged voters on Bernama Radio’s Fokus 30 programme on July 8 to "vote where we live". He said, "Not only is it more convenient, but our system of government is based on an ADUN or MP representing the residents of a particular area. If we live in that area, we should be the ones deciding who represents us, rather than voting in a constituency located hundreds of kilometres away" [3].
Voters must first update the address on their identity cards before changing their voting address, a process now facilitated online [1, 2, 3]. The EC has shifted from a quarterly to a monthly update of the electoral roll, allowing quicker processing of address changes [1, 2, 3].
The commission acknowledged that some voters feel sentimental attachment to their hometowns and are reluctant to update their address, but stressed it is essential to maintain accurate constituency representation and fair elections [1, 2, 3].
Preparations for the Johor state election, scheduled for July 11, are nearly complete with only final logistical matters remaining. More than 43,000 election personnel will be deployed for this election [1, 2, 3]. On the other hand, preparations for the Negeri Sembilan state election remain in the early stages. The nomination process has not yet taken place and ballot papers have not been printed. Over 15,000 personnel are expected to be deployed for the Negeri Sembilan polls [1, 2, 3].
The Johor election is set for July 11, with the EC finalizing details days ahead of the vote [1, 2, 3].
