KUCHING: Not declaring a public holiday on the eve of polling day is not a problem according to the business community.
Federation of Chinese Associations of Sarawak president Datuk Richard Wee said it is not necessary because it is unlike festive seasons when everyone goes back to their hometown, villages and longhouses.
“However, we all urge everyone to exercise their rights and vote. I think most employers would encourage their staff to go out and vote too.
“Employers can consider making polling day an off day for staff and encourage them to go out and vote,” he said.
He was prompted for opinions on Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s remarks that the Sarawak government is looking at whether it should declare a public holiday on Nov 18, the eve of polling day which falls on Nov 19.
Abang Johari said to have a public holiday on Nov 18 means that there will be an added cost on employers and the economy will be affected in view of the current uncertain economic situation.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Business Federation (SBF) secretary-general Datuk Jonathan Chai also echoed the views of the Premier.
“From the perspective of the business community, we don’t like to see any extra public holiday declared unless it’s really necessary or for an emergency,” he said.
Malaysia, he said, has the most number of public holidays among the countries in the region.
“Hence, it is high time to raise our productivity for us to remain competitive and on that note, we simply can’t afford to have any additional holiday unnecessarily,” he said.
Chai however said it is also important to provide convenience for employees and the public to vote on polling day.
“You don’t need to have an extra holiday before the polling day for them to exercise their right to vote in the democratic process.
“The employers should however allow their employees to take time off from their work schedule to cast their votes on polling day,” he added.
