PETALING JAYA: The government is committed to implementing automatic registration for new voters and Undi 18 from Jan 1 next year, says the Prime Minister.

       Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the decision is in line with the Kuching High Court order.

       “The Election Commission said it would need time until September 2022 to prepare for automatic registration due to management and administration reasons.

       “The government could also file an appeal to the court to postpone it.

       “However, as a gesture of appreciation towards the youths, the Cabinet has agreed to proceed with the court order,” he said during his speech at Hari Belia Negara 2021 on Saturday (Oct 30).

       The milestone decision will benefit 3.9 million people aged 30 and below with 1.3 million of them aged 18 to 20.

       He added that the age for election candidates will also be lowered to 18 years old.

       “This is our commitment to give our youths a voice,” he added.