EC Confirms No Dress Code On Polling Day After Viral Messages Shared On Social Media
Viral messages on the alleged dress code has been widely shared on Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp recently.
Cover image via Malay MailIn a statement issued on Monday, 30 April, the Election Commission (EC) has denied that a dress code would be forced on voters come polling day next Wednesday, 9 May
According to The Star, EC chairperson Mohd Hashim Abdullah has denied claims on social media that voters would be required to dress in a certain manner to vote on 9 May.
The EC chairman said that the authorities would never prevent a voter from entering the polling station as long as he or she adheres to the law under Section 26 (1) (g) of the Election Offences Act 1954.
He explained that the Act will prohibit voters from entering the polling station if they wear any type of clothing or carry equipment that displays names of candidates, political party symbols or logos on polling day.
Image via Smasa News
Here are some of the messages on the alleged dress code which have been widely shared on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp
Image via Twitter
Image via Facebook
Image via WhatsApp
Meanwhile, caretaker Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has taken it to Twitter to debunk one of the viral tweets and called it "fake news"
Image via Najib Razak via Twitter
The tweet reads, "So, in this case, who is the liar? If unsure, don't share. The opposition party campaigns with slander and fake news to win votes! #TsunamiPHitnah."
However, netizens have urged voters to dress appropriately regardless of dress code to ensure a smooth polling day for everyone
Image via Facebook
Image via Facebook
Mohd Hashim also advised the public to be careful when receiving information regarding the election through social media
Members of the public are encouraged to contact the EC directly at 03-88927018 to obtain verified and accurate information about the general election.

