The parliamentary select committee (PSC) on electoral reform is satisfied with the quality of proposals received from individuals and members of civil society at its first public hearing today.

NONE Speaking at the end of today's session, PSC chairperson and Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Maximus Ongkili ( right ) said the issues raised concerned "real and practical" matters.

"High quality ideas were presented to the committee, and we took time to discuss it and sought clarifications," he said of the 12 individuals and organisations who made presentations to the PSC today.

Among the recurring proposals was suggestions for automatic registration and voting by Malaysian citizens overseas.

Ongkili had said during the hearing that the PSC could visit foreign missions in Kuala Lumpur to understand how they facilitated voting for their citizens residing in Malaysia.

The proposals made today, he said, were well within the terms of reference of the committee and touched on the legal aspects and operations of elections.

'Suggest solutions as well '

However, Ongkili called on those who will attend the remaining five public hearings nationwide to "not only present problems" but also suggestions on how to rectify them.

"Some were emotional in presenting what they really believe in... but we also want suggestions for improvement. This is the kind of quality input we are looking for," he said.

bersih ariticle collection book launch 180911 antie anne Among those who spoke today was Annie Ooi ( right ), who came as an individual to "represent the voiceless".

Ooi had urged the committee to facilitate voting for all Malaysians, including those overseas, hospitalised or on duty.

But when asked by the minister for suggestions on how this should be done, Ooi, who is popularly known as Auntie Bersih for her role in the Bersih 2.0 rally, said: "I'm not giving you the solution, you have to work on it."

Seven groups and individuals are expected to make their presentations tomorrow, including Bersih 2.0 chairperson Ambiga Sreenevasan, who will speak in her individual capacity.

Others who appeared before the PSC today were the Selangor Youth Council, MCA, Transparency International Malaysia, Society of the Blind in Malaysia, the Association of Former Police Personnel, Putera MIC Selangor, Putera MIC international bureau, Human Rights Party, Youth Malaysian Movement and individuals Michael Soosay and KJ John.

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