Kota Kinabalu: Tuaran MP Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau proposed that the Election Commission (EC) set Monday as the polling day for the coming 17th State Election.
He said the proposal considers several factors, including maintaining interfaith harmony, easing travel for voters working away from home, and reflecting the true spirit of the National Education Philosophy.
He reminded that the first principle of the Rukun Negara, “Belief in God”, calls for respecting the rights of every faith to observe its day of worship.
“Previously, I have said that we must respect all days of worship as stated in the Rukun Negara.
“If polling is held on a day of worship, the EC may be seen as insensitive or disregarding the spirit of the Rukun Negara,” he said.
He noted that Friday is a holy day for Muslims, Saturday for members of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church and True Jesus Church, while Sunday is a day of worship for other Christians, including Roman Catholics and Protestants.
“Monday is the best option. Those working away can return home earlier over the weekend, worship with their families, and vote on Monday. It also helps reduce leave usage and travel costs,” he said.
“Some argue that polling should not be held on a weekday as it may disrupt schooling. But I view it from a broader perspective, how far we are truly practising the values contained in the National Education Philosophy,” he said in a statement.
The National Education Philosophy, he said, states that education in Malaysia is a continuous effort to develop individuals holistically, intellectually, spiritually, emotionally and physically, which are based on belief in and devotion to God.
Madius, who is also United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) Honorary President, said the philosophy should not remain confined to classrooms but reflect in government policies and actions to set an example for the younger generation.
“How can we expect students to embrace these values if our national practices do not reflect them? If we ourselves fail to show balance between worldly duties and faith, it becomes difficult for students to understand the true meaning of holistic education,” he said.
Madius further suggested that the government consider declaring a special holiday, similar to the 2018 general election which fell on a Wednesday, to enable voters to fulfil their civic duty.