Days after opposition-run states designated 18 and 19 November as a holiday, the federal government has finally followed suit. Caretaker Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has just announced that Friday and Saturday will be a public holiday, in order to facilitate citizens travelling to their hometowns to vote in the 15th Malaysian general elections (GE15).
Additionally, the premier also confirmed that Malaysians will enjoy free tolls over these two days, after the government reached an agreement with 30 highway concessionaires, although a list of participating highways has yet to be released.
This incentive, which will only benefit Class 1 vehicle users (estimated to make up 90% of all motorists), will last from 12:01am on Friday until 11:59pm on Saturday. The toll fares will be absorbed by the concessionaires themselves as part of their CSR initiatives, at an estimated cost of RM34.5 million.
This move follows the Selangor and Negeri Sembilan governments’ decision to make 18 and 19 November a state holiday last Wednesday, with Penang following suit the next day. All three are run by the Pakatan Harapan coalition.
Holidays, no highway tolls—there’s now no reason for you not to go out to vote. In case you’re wondering, you’re likely already registered as a voter, as automatic voter registration was introduced earlier this year. You can read about how to check your registration status, constituencies, polling location and even recommended voting time here.
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