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Voting On 9 May? Here's A Checklist On How To Survive Election Day

It's going to be a long day but you can make the best out of your voting experience.

Cover image via Aaron Favila/AP Photo via Astro Awani

9 May is almost here and you're turning into a ball of nerves thinking about all the things that you need to do in anticipation of Election Day. But don't worry, we've got you covered with this checklist.

Image via Azman Asmayatim

1. First things first, you should sleep early the day before

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It's highly likely that you'll be emotionally charged the next 24 hours, so sleep early to get enough rest. You'll want to make sure that you have enough energy to get through the day. 

2. If there is one thing you should never forget, it's your IC!

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Remember to bring along your IC because you'll be needing it for identity verification on polling day.

Polling centres open at 8am to 5pm on 9 May, so make sure you cast your ballots within the stipulated time given.

3. Wear decent clothing when heading to the polling station. Bring along an umbrella in case it rains or gets too sunny.

Also, don't forget to put on your most comfortable pair of shoes as the queue might be long.

The Election Commission has confirmed that no dress code will be imposed on voters. However, voters can be prohibited from entering a polling station if they are caught wearing any type of clothing or carry equipment that displays names of candidates, political party symbols, or logos on polling day.

4. While you're waiting for your turn at the polling station, remember to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water

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5. Done voting? Good news! Go claim your reward for voting.

Several establishments in Klang Valley have gained publicity for offering free meals to voters for casting their ballots. All you need to do is to show up with your ink-stained finger as proof that you've voted. 

If no eateries near you are offering you any treats, there's still no harm in rewarding yourself with your favourite dessert. 

6. If you know someone who hasn't voted, get him or her to head out to the polling station A.S.A.P. because it's everyone's constitutional right to vote

7. Planning to stay at home for the rest of the day? Catch up with all the latest updates at your fingertips.

Image via SAYS

There are a number of resources at your disposal including the SAYS GE14 live website which will provide you with all the latest verified information, including hot seats to stalk.

Stay informed, and be the first to know which party is winning. 

8. Don't entertain a message so quickly without verifying its authenticity

As emotions run high on Election Day, it's not surprising to find rumours being circulated especially on social media. 

However, the right thing to do is to verify and fact-check these information before you forward to your family and friends on WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger. 

Here's a simple video on how to fact-check anything that you are unsure of:

It won't be long until GE14 is over. So go out, cast your ballot, and relish every moment of the day which comes only once every few years!

Image via Mencap

Speaking of which, have you ever wondered how millions of votes are counted in a span of a few hours on polling day?

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