How can the Election Commission improve the overseas postal vote process for GE15?

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Election Commission Can Improve Overseas Postal Vote Process for GE15 Through Procedural Changes

Global Bersih has called for immediate procedural adjustments to the overseas postal voting system to ensure greater accessibility for Malaysian voters abroad in the upcoming 15th General Election (GE15). These proposed changes aim to address long-standing issues that have previously hampered overseas participation, including short registration windows and impractical witnessing requirements for postal ballots.
Extend Voter Registration and Campaign Periods

The Election Commission (EC) is urged to extend the period for overseas voter registration. Past elections have seen delays and backlogs due to insufficient notice for registration, creating pressure on EC officers and making it difficult for voters to meet deadlines. Furthermore, Global Bersih recommends extending the campaign period to a minimum of 21 to 25 days. This extended timeframe is crucial to allow adequate time for postal ballots to be dispatched to overseas voters and subsequently returned to the designated polling stations, a process that has necessitated costly courier services in previous elections due to short campaign durations.
Modify Witness Requirements for Postal Ballots

A significant bureaucratic hurdle identified is the requirement for postal ballots to be signed and witnessed by another Malaysian national. This rule presents practical difficulties for many overseas Malaysians, particularly those residing in areas with a limited presence of other Malaysian citizens. Global Bersih advocates for a revision of this witnessing protocol to make it more feasible for a wider range of overseas voters to cast their ballots without undue impediment.
Implement Straightforward Procedural Adjustments

According to Nirmala Devi Windgatter, Global Bersih’s secretary-general, the suggested improvements are primarily straightforward procedural changes that fall within the EC's discretion. These adjustments do not necessitate substantial amendments to existing laws or policies, indicating that they can be implemented relatively quickly. The group emphasizes that these changes should be enacted by the EC and relevant ministries as soon as possible to ensure the overseas postal voting process functions effectively for GE15.

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How can the Election Commission improve the overseas postal vote process for GE15?

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