Johor bahru: The Election Commission (EC) has called on employers to allocate a reasonable period for their employees, who are registered voters, to participate in the 16th Johor State Election scheduled for Saturday. EC secretary Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus highlighted concerns that some employers might not provide adequate time for workers to cast their ballots.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Khairul Shahril urged employers to adhere to Section 25 of the Election Offences Act 1954, ensuring that employees can exercise their voting rights. He emphasized that employers should not deduct wages or impose penalties on employees fulfilling their voting obligations.

Khairul Shahril further stated that any employer who denies or hinders an employee from voting is committing an offence under the law. Upon conviction, the penalty can be a fine of up to RM5,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both. He expressed hope that employers will cooperate fully to facilitate a smooth voting process and encourage high voter turnout.

In the upcoming election, 172 candidates are vying for 56 seats in the Johor State Assembly.