Good day. Apparently, it is my duty to cast my vote unquestioningly as an obedient voter in Malaysia.
I am reminded that within this system of democracy, my voice and opinion matter.
This definition of democracy has been drilled into my psyche. I’ve been constantly reminded that I have the ability, right and capability to vote for the leaders and government I want.
The choice of the majority forms the government. But what happens to the voices of the minority?
Apparently, the ballot box is where my real power lies. It is where I choose or refuse the candidate or government of my choice.
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I’m also reminded to vote wisely, based on manifestos. But they often remain as political rhetoric in the end.
Growing up, I realised that voting was framed along ethnic lines and party power. Does this mean that democracy can be influenced, controlled and manipulated according to the whims and fancies of the few?
Hence, this leads me to write to you. It has become tiring to listen to promises that are not fulfilled. It is also exhausting to read about race, ethnic and religious-based issues overshadowing economic and livelihood concerns.
It is also draining to hear about political realignments, defections, alliances and counter-alliances. Add to that the denials, justifications and excuses – often made in the name and benefit of the people.
After hours of driving and standing in snaking queues to cast my vote, I may find out something frustrating. Winning candidates may suddenly realign themselves politically, or defect from the very alliances that brought them into office.
Yet, despite all these antics, I’m reminded how every election is the most important election of my lifetime. It is tiring to be asked to save democracy repeatedly. Meanwhile, the cost of living, public services, education, healthcare and everyday struggles remain unresolved. And yes, do not forget the traffic jams.
It is also tiring to see manifestos becoming beautiful documents during campaigns – only to become negotiable once the results are announced.
It is also ironic to see certain individuals condemned online for failing to carry out election promises. Yet these same individuals are placed on a pedestal when they appear in public, with crowds rushing for a selfie opportunity. This rush would probably make BTS blush.
Yet, dear Election Fatigue, I know I cannot allow you to win completely. If I stay home, others will decide for me. If I stop caring, then those who benefit from my silence will become louder.
So yes, you may follow me to the polling station. You may whisper that nothing will change. Same old faces.
But I will still mark my vote. Not because I am naïve. Not because I believe every promise. But because my tiredness must not become surrender.
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
