THE country is experiencing election fever.
The general election, with nomination day set for today and polling day on March 21, is the 11th to be held in Malaysia’s history.
This election is historic as it is the first in the new millennium and century with a new Prime Minister at the helm. Much water has passed under the bridge since the last election in 1999, and the issues and situation have changed considerably.
As noted by an astute observer, elections in Malaysia have never failed to be “festive” and “colourful”. This is perhaps a testament that the country is stable, safe and secure to undertake its democratic responsibility by returning power back to the electorate to decide on who will represent them.
It is important, therefore, for the electorate to exercise its right – and responsibility – wisely, to choose the best person for the job. Many registered voters sometimes forget that the right to choose and vote is also a great responsibility.
There is no place for apathy as voting is a responsibility. Failure to vote is a failure to understand and appreciate that which is not available to a number of countries in some parts of the world – the freedom to choose their leaders.
Malaysians are indeed lucky, and this is something we are often reminded of time and again. Because we are fortunate in many aspects, we sometimes tend to take things for granted, becoming complacent. Our nation has a stable politico-economic climate – the envy of many a nation. We have weathered the political and economic storms almost unscathed. With each challenge, we – as a nation and a people – have matured and grown stronger.
This is a gift bestowed upon us by God – both as a blessing and as a test. This gift of peace and stability is a blessing not given to everyone on this planet. It is also a test to see whether we are thankful or otherwise.
The right to vote has always been fought for in many countries in the world. We can see that in these countries the people are not allowed to choose whom they want as their leaders. Even when a country is said to be a democracy, sometimes it is not safe for the electorate to exercise the right.
These situations do not occur in Malaysia. The ruling Government returns power to the people even before the term of the Parliament expires in order to gather a stronger mandate from them.
Registered voters are free to choose their leaders in a safe and secure environment. In fact, election fever has never failed to be a colourful, picturesque and festive display of democracy in action. For this alone, we must not forget to thank the Almighty.
While we have the right to choose, we should always remember that this right is, more importantly, a huge responsibility. This right should not be wasted by opting not to exercise it.
We must realise that every single vote can make a big difference and sway the result. As such, it is imperative that all registered voters make their votes count.
Equally essential is the need for the electorate to choose wisely. Freedom to choose must at all times be accompanied by wisdom to choose.
In this day and age catalysed by modern technologies, it is easy for voters to obtain information about the contestants, whether candidates or parties. For instance, there are many websites, official or otherwise, that highlight the cause and plight of those vying for the seats contested.
Hence, it is of great importance that voters use their wisdom in studying the issues being presented during election campaigns. This is crucial because it will enable voters to make informed decisions before going to the ballot box.
When we speak about responsibility during the election, it is also worth remembering that the candidates and political parties have their own responsibilities that need to be observed and upheld.
Those on the campaign trail must ensure that they maintain civility. In this instance, Islam has given a clear directive via verse 12 of Surah al-Hujurat to the effect that: “Oye who believe! Avoid suspicion as much (as possible), for suspicion in some cases is a sin, and spy not on each other, nor speak ill of each other behind their backs. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? Nay, ye would abhor it. But fear God, for God is oft-returning, Most Merciful.” God has compared backbiting and speaking ill of others to eating the flesh of dead people. Surely this serves as a lucid instruction to all on the need to avoid degrading and defaming others.
It could, therefore, be said that the election is a very obvious test of the character of the candidates and political parties, more so for those who understand the contents of the Quran. This test will see just how far the Quranic injunctions are put into practice by the players in the general election.
How far do they emulate the high moral character of the Prophet? How much truth is there in their campaign speeches? Do they resort to low blows and character assassination? It should be noted that freedom to campaign does not mean freedom to degrade and defame others. By right, the election campaign should be used to highlight the political aspirants’ pledges as well as ideals and ideas.
Election campaigns should not be used as a platform for abusing others. This is an abuse of democracy. The electorate must not be subjected to this kind of intellectually-challenged campaign which, in the end, could be counter-productive.
Civility and respect towards friends and adversaries alike should be the keyword on the part of its main players. It is also crucial that all those concerned with the election ensure that their emotions are kept in check. Rationality should be the order of the day.
Today’s voters are wiser than before. Petty issues and a narrow-minded campaigning approach do not have a place in this more sophisticated society.
Voters are not looking at what the political aspirants are saying. Rather, they would like to see how the aspirants can deliver on their promises. Empty rhetoric and hollow promises have no place in the campaign.
Some time ago, the Prime Minister pointed out that Malaysians need to develop the mindset and mentality of the developed world so that it is in line with the infrastructure that the country possesses.
Perhaps it is not stretching it too far to say that in facing the election, Malaysians must possess this advanced mindset.
While exercising our voting right and responsibility, we must use this developed world mindset and mentality to make the best choice. We cannot not afford to make a mistake in exercising our right to vote.
Instead, we should remember that the challenges facing the country in the coming years are greater than ever. Surely, we want the right kind of leaders to help us face these challenges.
Should we choose wrongly, it would affect our own future. The aim of becoming a developed nation by the year 2020 would remain a mere pipe-dream. As such, let us use our wisdom to make the right and best choice in the 11th general election.