THE Election Commission is studying the possibility of implementing the e-voting system, with discussions still in the preliminary stages, said chairman Azhar Azizan Harun.

“We are just looking at the pros and cons now. We have had demos of how it works and the equipment involved, (but) have yet to engage stakeholders.

“I am also looking at costs. All are in the preliminary stages of discussion now,” he told The Malaysian Insight in a text message.

Asked if there is a time frame for when the proposal would be presented to the cabinet, he reiterated that discussions are still in the early stages, and no timeline has been set.

Bahasa Malaysia daily Berita Harian quoted Azhar as saying the EC is mulling the idea of introducing the e-voting system after a study by the commission found it to be safe, fast and cost-efficient.

The e-voting system is among several proposals mooted by the EC. Implemented in countries like Russia, South Korea, India and the Republic of the Congo, the system is touted as time-efficient and reduces the need for extra manpower during elections.

The EC has embarked on research on the e-voting system, and has engaged the relevant parties, including officials from countries where the system is in place, said Berita Harian.

The implementation of the system will require amendments to certain laws and election rules. Additionally, voters, especially those in rural areas, must be educated on how to use the system.

Azhar was quoted by Berita Harian as saying the e-voting system will allow the number of votes tallied to be known immediately after polling centres are closed, and that data will be backed up and ballot papers printed out. – February 7, 2019.