Hey there, fellow Singaporeans! With Polling Day 2023 Singapore happening today, it’s time to gear up for an event that truly shapes our nation’s future. Whether you’re a seasoned voter or a first-timer, this guide has got you covered with all the juicy details about voting in the upcoming Singapore Presidential Election.
Who’s in the Running?
Let’s kick things off with the stars of the show – the candidates! Meet the trio vying for the coveted position: Tharman Shanmugaratnam, represented by a quirky pineapple symbol; Peter Ng Kok Song, sporting an open palm with a heart; and Tan Kin Lian, with four people reaching for a flower. These candidates are ready to rock the election stage!
The Voting Must-Do
Got a question in mind – “Do I have to vote?” The answer is a resounding yes! If you’re a Singapore Citizen aged 21 or older and eligible to vote, then get ready to exercise that right of yours. It’s like a national duty with a twist of excitement.
Where to Head on Polling Day
Image from iStock
No need to go on a scavenger hunt to find your polling station. Most likely, it’s just a stone’s throw away from your home sweet home. Schools are popular choices for polling stations, and they’ll be closed for the day. Plus, some void decks might transform into these important spots. Your poll card holds the key to your designated polling station, but you can also peek into your Singpass app for that ePoll card – it’s like a virtual treasure map!
Pack Your Essentials
On the big day, make sure you’ve got your trusty National Registration Identity Card (NRIC) or a valid passport, and don’t forget that poll card. These are your golden tickets to enter the voting arena. But guess what? If you’re in a rush, there’s a lifeline – the Singpass app with your ePoll card and digital NRIC. Oh, and speaking of packing, leave those cameras, alcohol, and campaign goodies at home – they’re not invited to this party.
Timing Is Everything
Image from iStock
From 8am to 8pm, the polling stations are open for action. Wondering when’s the best time to vote? Well, it’s like predicting the weather – a bit unpredictable. But if you’re an early bird, the morning might be your jam. To avoid the crowds, sneak a peek at the VoteQ website with your postal code – they’ve got the scoop on polling station traffic.
Mark Your Choice
So, the moment of truth arrives – you’re facing the ballot slip. How do you make your choice heard? Easy peasy – put an ‘X’ stamp on your chosen candidate or scribble it with your own pen. And hey, only ‘X’ marks the spot, so don’t get too artsy on that paper. Once you’re done, fold the slip like a pro and drop it into the ballot box like a boss.
The No-Vote Conundrum
Skipping out on voting? It’s not like going to detention, but there are some repercussions. Your name takes a little vacation from the Registers of Electors, so you won’t get to join the next election fiesta. To make amends, pay a visit to Singpass online and cough up a fee unless you’ve got a pretty good excuse.
Vote from Afar
In the land of Singaporeans living abroad, there are 10 overseas polling stations. Beijing, Canberra, Dubai – oh my! Just remember, you need to register as an overseas elector via Voter Services on Singpass. Or, if snail mail is your jam, go ahead and vote via post.
Balancing Work and Voting
Work commitments knocking on your door? Well, Polling Day is a public holiday, but depending on your job, you might still need to clock in. Don’t worry – you’re in for extra salary or a rain check on that time off. And if you’re on a pre-planned vacation, fret not. It’s a valid excuse to skip voting, along with work trips, illness, or jet-setting for studies.
Online Voting Myth Buster
Hold up – can you vote online? Nope, not in Singapore. Even if you’ve got your digital NRIC and ePoll card on your phone, it’s paper ballots all the way.
So there you have it, your ultimate guide to rocking the voting scene in the Singapore Presidential Election 2023. Get ready to make your mark, have your voice heard, and be a part of this exciting democratic process. See you at the polls!
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