Malaysia: May 9, election day, declared a public holiday

Event

The Malaysian government announced on April 11 that May 9, the day of the upcoming general elections, has been declared a public holiday. This comes a day after the Election Commission's announced the date of the country's 14th general election. The prime minister's office made the announcement amid public anger that many people would not be able to return to their hometowns to vote, due to the election being held on a weekday. 

Context

Parties will officially nominate candidates on April 28 for 222 parliamentary and 505 state seats. Early voting for military and police personnel as well as for voters living abroad has been fixed for May 5. An 11-day campaign period will start from April 28. In total, 15 million people are eligible to vote.

Advice

As a precautionary measure, individuals present in Malaysia are advised to avoid public rallies, refrain from discussing domestic political issues, and anticipe a heightened security presence in urban areas.