Madius Backs Call for Postal Voting for Sabahans in Peninsular Malaysia

TUARAN, Oct 9 — Tuaran Member of Parliament, Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau, has voiced strong support for a proposal to introduce postal voting for Sabahans living, working, or studying in Peninsular Malaysia, calling it a vital step toward ensuring fair democratic participation.

The proposal, initiated by Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung, urges the Election Commission (EC) to allow Sabahans outside the state to vote by post in future elections. Madius said the idea was not new, noting that similar appeals had previously come from various parties, including civil society groups such as BERSIH.

“This measure should be implemented to ensure that Sabahans living outside the state are not deprived of their responsibilities and democratic rights,” Madius said in a statement today.
He explained that many Sabahans working in West Malaysia face significant barriers to returning home during elections due to limited flight availability, high airfare, difficulty obtaining leave, and time constraints.

“The postal voting proposal will enable them to carry out their civic duty without bearing unnecessary financial and logistical burdens,” he added.

Madius, who also serves as Honorary President of the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO), stressed that expanding access to postal voting would strengthen democratic practices and public participation in Malaysia’s electoral process.

“We must ensure that the right to vote is accessible to all citizens, regardless of their location.

A transparent and secure postal voting system will allow more Sabahans to take part in the democratic process,” he said.

He further emphasized that the initiative aligns with the principles of fairness and inclusivity that underpin Malaysia’s electoral system, urging the government and EC to give the proposal serious consideration.

Madius also called on the Election Commission and the Sabah state government to review the legal and procedural frameworks required to implement postal voting effectively. He suggested that the authorities explore early voting mechanisms and improved information channels for Sabah voters residing outside the state.

Lee Chean Chung had earlier stated that postal voting for Sabahans in Peninsular Malaysia would ensure their democratic rights are not denied due to distance and cost barriers, especially if a Sabah state election is held soon.

-Agency