Voters in Sabah are gearing up for a significant moment in the state’s democratic process, as applications for domestic and international postal voting for the 17th Sabah State Election are set to open this coming Monday, October 13, 2025. This announcement, made by Election Commission (EC) secretary Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus, marks an important step in ensuring that all eligible Sabahans—whether at home or abroad—have the opportunity to cast their ballots in the highly anticipated election.
According to BERNAMA, the EC has clarified that postal voting applications will be available for all major categories. Category 1A includes election officers, EC members or officers, police, army personnel, and media practitioners. Category 1B is designated for Malaysians residing abroad, while Category 1C encompasses agencies or organisations. This wide net aims to accommodate the unique circumstances of voters who, for various reasons, cannot be physically present at polling stations on election day.
“Eligible voters who wish to vote by post must register for or already have a MySPR account before submitting their postal voting application,” Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus stated in his official announcement, as reported by BERNAMA. This requirement underscores the EC’s commitment to a streamlined, secure, and transparent application process. The MySPR online portal, accessible at https://myspr.spr.gov.my, will serve as the sole platform for submitting postal voting applications, reflecting a broader shift toward digitalization within Malaysia’s electoral system.
The EC has not yet announced the closing date for postal voting applications, a detail that many voters are eagerly awaiting. For now, the focus is on encouraging all eligible individuals to prepare their MySPR accounts and submit their applications promptly once the portal opens. For those with questions or in need of assistance, the EC has provided dedicated contact numbers: 03-8892 7080 and 03-8892 7218. This proactive approach aims to address potential concerns and ensure a smooth experience for all applicants.
The move to open postal voting applications to such a broad spectrum of categories is not without precedent, but it carries particular weight in the context of the 17th Sabah State Election. Postal voting has long played a crucial role in enabling participation among those who serve the nation in official capacities or reside beyond Malaysian borders. By reaffirming and expanding these provisions, the EC sends a clear message about the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in the democratic process.
For election officers and EC staff, the ability to vote by post is essential. These individuals are often stationed at polling centers or involved in the administration of the election itself, making it logistically impossible for them to vote in person. Police and army personnel, too, may be deployed or on duty during the election period, necessitating alternative voting arrangements. Media practitioners, tasked with covering the election across Sabah’s vast and sometimes remote landscapes, also benefit from the flexibility of postal voting.
Category 1B, covering Malaysians residing abroad, is particularly significant in an era of increasing global mobility. Sabahans living, working, or studying overseas may otherwise be disenfranchised by distance and travel constraints. The EC’s inclusion of this group acknowledges the diverse and far-flung nature of the Sabah electorate, ensuring that voices from around the world can still contribute to the state’s future direction.
Agencies and organisations—grouped under Category 1C—add another layer of complexity and inclusivity. These may include government entities, non-governmental organizations, or other bodies whose staff require postal voting due to the nature of their work. By catering to these varied needs, the EC demonstrates an understanding of the multifaceted realities facing modern voters.
The use of the MySPR online portal is a notable feature of this year’s application process. Digitalization has been a growing trend in Malaysian elections, with the aim of increasing efficiency, reducing errors, and enhancing security. The portal requires voters to register or log in with a verified account, helping to ensure that only eligible individuals can access postal voting. This system also allows for better tracking and management of applications, reducing the risk of lost or misdirected ballots.
Of course, the transition to online systems is not without its challenges. Internet connectivity remains uneven in some parts of Sabah, and not all voters may be equally comfortable with digital technologies. The EC’s provision of phone support is a tacit acknowledgement of these realities, offering a safety net for those who encounter difficulties or have questions about the process.
As the opening date for postal voting applications approaches, there is a palpable sense of anticipation among Sabahans both at home and abroad. The 17th state election is expected to be closely watched, with high stakes for the future of the state and its people. Ensuring broad participation is not just a matter of administrative efficiency—it is a cornerstone of democratic legitimacy.
According to BERNAMA, the EC’s efforts to publicize the application process include outreach through multiple channels: BERNAMA TV, BERNAMA Radio, and a range of social media platforms. This multi-pronged approach aims to reach voters across all demographics, from urban professionals to rural communities and the diaspora. By leveraging both traditional and digital media, the EC is working to ensure that no eligible voter is left uninformed or excluded.
While the specific closing date for postal voting applications remains to be announced, the message from the EC is clear: now is the time for eligible Sabahans to act. Registering for a MySPR account and preparing to submit an application are essential first steps. With the election drawing nearer, the window for participation—especially for those relying on postal voting—may close quickly once the official deadline is set.
This year’s postal voting process reflects broader trends in electoral administration, both in Malaysia and globally. As societies become more mobile and interconnected, election commissions face the challenge of balancing security, accessibility, and efficiency. The Sabah EC’s approach, as outlined by Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus, represents an effort to meet these challenges head-on while maintaining the integrity of the ballot.
For many Sabahans, the ability to vote—whether in person or by post—is more than a procedural right. It is a vital expression of civic identity and a direct stake in the state’s future. As the 17th Sabah State Election draws closer, the EC’s commitment to inclusive, accessible, and secure postal voting will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome—and the legitimacy—of the democratic process.
With preparations underway and the application portal set to open, all eyes are now on Sabah’s voters. The choices they make, and the means by which they participate, will help define the next chapter in the state’s political story.