Gerakan Deputy President Dato’ Chang Ko Youn today welcomes the decision by the Election Commission (EC) to use indelible ink in the next general election as recommended by the Parliamentary Selection Committee on Electoral Reforms. The proposed changes demonstrate Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Najib's commitment to transform Malaysia into a full democratic nation and effevtive responses to public opinions.

Dato’ Chang believes that free and fair election is an inalienable democratic right of citizens and the essence of any democracy is the ability of the electorate to choose their elected representatives in a free, fair and open manner, without fear or favour and the notion is echoed by the EC’s decision opting to use for indelible ink.

Chang explains that Parti Gerakan recognises that we have to move with times. The time has come for our system to be further enhanced to ensure we are able to respond effectively to contemporary challenges facing our election system and he appreciates the EC’s willingness and commitment to serve in that purpose.

“The indelible ink must be used in all elections. It is a simple, affordable and effective solution in preventing double voting. We do not believe that the use of indelible ink will impinge on the constitution rights of any Malaysian,” said Dato’ Chang, who is also the party Human Rights and Law Bureau Chairman.

However, Chang also further stressed on the concern by the Penang Gerakan that the indelible ink can be removed in 5 minutes with laser. As a result, Chang urges the EC to study thoroughly and further improve its usability to avoid any unwanted disputes.

Apart from this, Dato’ Chang Ko Youn also urges the EC to conduct a comprehensive study and come out with a mechanism on the proposal that the overseas Malaysians residing abroad be allowed to practice their voting rights in the general elections.

“In the spirit of reform and renewal, every Malaysians regardless of his or her geographical location, inside or outside the country, must be allowed to exercise the right to vote, the EC and our foreign missions must set up a fair and effective mechanism to facilitate this process,” stressed Chang.

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