By Ling Hui
KUCHING, Nov 19: Some 21 million Malaysians, of which about two million Sarawakians, will be casting their votes today in the 15th general election (GE15).
Out of the total of 1,943,074 registered voters in Sarawak, the group of new Undi18 voters, about 129,034 of them, make up to 6.6 per cent of the total number.
According to Election Commission records, Miri has the highest number of Undi18 voters with 9,659, followed by Bintulu (8,816), Petra Jaya (8,198) and Stampin (8,195).
Meanwhile, Lubok Antu recorded the least number of first-timer youth voters aged 18 to 21 with 1,684.
Though not a big crowd, this new bloc of young blood may just become the deciding factor of some parliamentary seats, especially when their political inclination is unpredictable.
Some 92 candidates will be contesting 31 parliamentary seats in Sarawak. Out of the 92, 11 are Independents.
The weather so far is fine and clear in Kuching but forecasts have predicted there may be scattered thunderstorms from late noon.
As early as 6.30am, voters have been seen queuing up at various polling centres across Sarawak to exercise their right.
Definitely, social media today will be bombarded with inked fingers photos, and furthermore, Malaysian voters including Sarawakians can rejoice as many food and beverage stores are offering freebies and special promotions for those with their indelible-inked fingers to mark the occassion.
Happy voting, Sarawakians! — Dayakdaily
