GE14 | Electoral reform group Bersih said electoral right was more than just casting votes and therefore Telekom Malaysia (TM) should retract the guideline prohibiting its employees from being polling and counting agents (Paca) in the 14th general election.

"The TM group and all employers must realise that a citizen's right is more than just casting their vote on May 9.

"A person should not be prevented from participating in the electoral process such as becoming a Paca as long as their employees do it outside their work time or during their off time.

"This is a citizen's right and nothing in the law prevents them from doing so," Bersih said in a statement today.

Earlier today, Malaysiakini reported that TM group had issued a "guideline" to employees in its stable of companies about the 14th general election. 

The document, issued on April 11, stated among others: "Telekom Malaysia employees are prohibited from acting as election agents in polling centres or acting in any way for candidates contesting in either the Dewan Rakyat or Dewan Negeri".

Malaysiakini had reached out to TM, which said that it will respond in due time.

Bersih said employers should encourage their staff to become Paca to ensure the integrity of the general election.

"Participation in the general election is not limited to casting votes," it said.