Joniston and some of the local artists featured in the Digital MTV FH Idol Album.
PENAMPANG (March 29): Postal voting could be a cost-saving alternative for Sabahans residing outside the state wishing to return home to exercise their right in the coming 17th state election.
“I think it is a good suggestion as we would like to ensure that all Sabahans, wherever they are, will be able to participate in exercising their democratic rights to vote on election day. And I am sure such a suggestion will be considered by the Election Commission, it is not for us to decide,” said Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
Joniston when speaking to reporters after officiating the launch of the MTV FH Idol 2 Digital Album by F Harmthon Production Sdn Bhd here today, said this when asked to comment on Sabah PKR chief Datuk Mustapha Sakmud’s suggestion that the Election Commission allow eligible Sabahans residing outside the state to vote via postal voting, thus reducing their traveling expenses to return home.
Meanwhile when asked to comment on the call by BERSIH Sabah for the state government to announce the dissolution of the assembly earlier so that voters wishing to return home could plan their journeys, Joniston pointed out that the 17th state election is only due in October.
“Our term is only due in October, so there is still plenty of time, it’s only March.
“Of course, timing is very important, I am sure the Chief Minister will have many things to consider before announcing the dissolution. And hopefully, any good suggestion will be considered,” the Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) information chief said.
Mustapha had urged the Election Commission to allow eligible Sabahans to vote via postal voting, reducing the burden of high flight costs for those returning home to cast their votes.
As of December 2024, Mustapha said that Sabah had 1.69 million registered voters, with over 55 per cent aged between 18 and 39. More than 200,000 Sabahans are currently working and studying in Peninsular Malaysia.
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