A coalition of more than 60 NGOs are urging airline companies to accord cheaper airfare or even free rides for Sabah and Sarawak voters living in the peninsula to return to their hometown to cast their ballots in the coming general election.

The 66 NGOs stated that many East Malaysians could not fly back to vote because of the expensive traveling cost.

NONE “AirAsia X has recently offered cheaper tickets for overseas Malaysians to return to vote. We hope this could be extended to Sabah and Sarawak voters,” the NGOs said in a statement issued today.

They were referring to the statement by AirAsia X chief executive officer Azran Osman-Rani ( right ) last month that overseas Malaysian voters can enjoy promotional prices, even if the bookings are made at the eleventh hour.

Azran, however, had said details of the offer will only be officially announced after the election is called.

As such, as part of the ‘Jom Balik Undi Bah’ campaign, the NGOs are also appealing to private companies to carry out their corporate social responsibility by sponsoring ticket fare.

Apart from the high traveling cost, the group also pointed out that the undecided election date have made it difficult for Sabah and Sarawak voters in Peninsular Malaysia to return to vote.

Thus, they requested private and public institutions of higher learning, government departments and private companies grant a special two or three days’ leave so that the East Malaysians electorates may return.

NONE Meanwhile, the Election Commission (EC) too is urged to grant postal voter status those from Sabah and Sarawak residing in the peninsula, so they may still fulfil their obligation to vote.

‘Jom Balik Undi Bah’ campaign is led by Pusat Komunikasi Masyarakat (Pusat Komas) and Anak Muda Sabah, Sarawak.

Among the NGOs which endorsed the statement are - Bersih branches in Sabah, Kluang, Johor Bahru and New Zealand, the Centre for Orang Asli Concerns, Amnesty International, Johor People's Action Group, Solidariti Anak Muda Malaysia, Suara Rakyat Malaysia, Tenaganita, the Women’s Aid Organisation and Lawyers for Liberty.

On Jan 31, the Malaysians living overseas launched a ‘ Jom Balik Undi ’ campaign to get fellow citizens abroad to return home to vote during the 13th general election.

Related stories

BR1M not vote-buying, says MACC officer

Activist: New media the only way to get level playing field

Bersih 2.0 secretariat office broken into

Can Nazri pledge a peaceful transition, asks Anwar

Over 80pct of Malaysians believe us, claims EC

Don: Rulers should put caretaker gov't on a leash

Further delay of GE hampers market

EC pulling another Sabah stunt in Selangor