KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 13 — Chief of Malaysia Armed Forces General Tan Sri Affendi Buang said that the postal voting process for Malaysia Armed Forces (ATM) members started as early as November 7.

“Postal voting process for members who are registered as postal voters had started on Nov 7 until Oct 19, 5pm after they have received their ballot paper.

“November 15 is the early voting day for the armed forces and their spouses, and 146,737 people have been gazetted as eligible for early voting in Election Commission’s (EC) data,” said Affendi Buang in a statement today.

He then added that the ATM had always supported the democratic system under the ruling of Yang-diPertua Agong as the constitutional monarchy of the country to which they pledge loyalty.

“As Armed Forces personnel we adhere to the integrity norms in carrying out our duty and responsibility for the well-being of the country,” said Affendi Buang.

The chief of defense forces also said that ATM is ready to mobilise their assets to help those in areas hit by floods since the country had entered into the monsoon period on November 7 which is expected to end on March 2023.

“We are also ready to give our support to EC, and related authorities to ensure the voting process goes on smoothly in the whole country.

“As well as ensuring the safety of the society from any unwanted events throughout the election period until the results were announced,” he added.

Previously, Pakatan Harapan’s chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim alleged that certain armed forces member in Bera, a federal seat held by caretaker Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, had cast their postal vote earlier than the date set by EC.

He claimed that they were given RM300 for each vote.

Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) however urged whoever made such an allegation to provide evidence and lodge an official complaint.