So, we officially have a date for the 14th general election (GE14), and everyone is geared up to get out and vote.
However, if you feel like you want to do more than just vote on polling day, you can also volunteer as a polling and counting agent (PACA) to ensure that there is transparency in the voting process. First, let’s start off with the most obvious question;
Who is eligible to become a PACA?
Source: MMO
Well, according to Invoke Malaysia, in order to qualify as a PACA, one must be;
- A Malaysian citizen
- 21 years old or above
- Not bankrupt
- Not convicted for any offences within 5 years before
What are the duties of a PACA on polling day?
Source: MMO
According to Roketkini, here are some of the main responsibilities a PACA needs to carry out on polling day;
- Check if the voters’ information is the same as what’s on their MyKad
- Check that the voters have not voted yet (i.e., check for indelible ink stains on fingers)
- Ensure that each voter casts their ballot smoothly and confidentially without prompting from other parties in the room
- Focus on what goes in and out of the room, and make sure nothing suspicious is happening (if anything suspicious has been picked up, PACAs have to notify their election agent or party in order to stop the polling process)
- Make sure the counting process follows the procedures without any interference from other parties
- Ensure nothing suspicious is happening in the counting centre’s vicinity
Where can I sign up to become a PACA?
Source: ROSE
There are many channels through which Malaysians can sign up as PACAs, as most organisations, political parties, and candidates (e.g.: Invoke Malaysia, ROSE, Nurul Izzah Anwar, and PKR, just to name a few) share links to application forms on their social media accounts and websites.
The application itself is pretty straightforward, while some may require you to fill in your parliament and your State Assembly [Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN)] if you want to volunteer as a PACA near your polling district. If you’re not sure about where you’re supposed to vote and what your DUN is, you can check it via the Election Commission’s portal here.
What can I expect once I sign up?
Source: wongchen.com
PACAs who sign up will then have to attend a training workshop so that volunteers can have a more in-depth understanding of how to carry out certain tasks that are part of their roles and responsibilities.
You will also be briefed on the time you’re expected to report to your respective polling station, your dress code, and much more. Don’t worry, though, you’ll be given time to cast your ballot, too!
These workshops are usually held quite frequently and most organisations give you the option of picking a workshop that’s the most convenient for you.
So, if you want to ensure that this coming GE14 goes smoothly and fairly, do so by becoming an essential part of the election process! Be sure you’re also aware of your polling district before going out to vote on the big day!
Are you keen or know anyone that’s interested to volunteer as a PACA? Tag them in this article!
Also read: GE14: Important Do’s & Don’ts on Polling Day M’sians MUST Take Note Of
