Will Sarawak subsidise student travel for GE15 voting?

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Sarawak's Consideration of Subsidised Travel for Students Voting in GE15

The Sarawak government is currently considering a suggestion to provide assistance for out-of-state Sarawakian students to return home and vote in the 15th General Election (GE15). Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg indicated that any potential subsidy for student travel would require thorough study of its implications and adherence to election laws. The proposal emerged from a student's query during a recent town hall session.
Proposal Origin and Nature

The idea of subsidising travel for Sarawakian students to vote in GE15 originated from a direct request made by a student during the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak town hall session. The student inquired whether the government would offer assistance for them to travel back to Sarawak to cast their ballots. This marked the genesis of the government's subsequent consideration of such a measure.
Legal and Leadership Consultation

Premier Abang Johari emphasised that any decision regarding a travel subsidy for students would necessitate discussion among Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) leaders. Furthermore, he stressed the critical importance of ensuring full compliance with existing election laws, specifically referencing the Election Offences Act. This highlights a dual requirement of internal party consensus and legal permissibility before any concrete action can be taken.
Need for Thorough Study

The Premier stated that the Sarawak government must thoroughly study the implications of such a proposal before a definitive decision can be reached. This includes understanding the logistical, financial, and legal ramifications of offering a special subsidy. The feasibility and ultimate materialisation of this assistance remain under active review, pending the outcome of this comprehensive study.
Commitment to Consideration

While a final decision has not been made, Abang Johari confirmed that the Sarawak government is indeed looking into the matter of providing a special subsidy for young Sarawakian voters residing in Peninsular Malaysia. This confirmation suggests that the government acknowledges the request and is actively exploring the possibility of facilitating their return to vote, albeit with necessary legal and leadership considerations.

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Will Sarawak subsidise student travel for GE15 voting?

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