KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 — Following the Election Commission’s (EC) decision to hold the 14th general election on May 9, a working Wednesday, several firms have announced it will offer paid leave to its staff on that day to fulfill their democratic obligation.

Publishing group Karangkraf Sdn Bhd said today that its staff will get one day off, as announced by group chief executive officer Datuk Hussamuddin Yaacub on social media just hours after the dates were revealed.

“Karangkraf will give an off day to all cast their votes,” he posted in Malay.

 

 

Meanwhile, an award-winning public relations company Shekhinah PR not only gave its employees two days off, but will bear the cost of petrol and toll charges for all employees who would have to make return trips to their hometown.

“Due to polling day being on May 9, the management of #ShekhinahPR has decided to close its office for two days — May 8 and 9, so its outstation staff can return to their respective hometown and exercise their individual right to vote as citizens of Malaysia,” chief executive officer Christopher Raj wrote.

The move has been met with praise on social media.

Several other employers and university lecturers have also announced on social media their decision to grant leave to those involved.

 

 

 

 

 

EC chairman Tan Sri Mohd Hashim Abdullah had earlier today announced nomination day would fall on April 28, advance polling day on May 5, and the polling day on May 9.

This is the first general election held on a Wednesday since 1959.

Polls watchdog Bersih 2.0 had today urged Putrajaya to grant a public holiday on that date.