ISLAMABAD: The Committee for the Indonesian General Elections with the support of the Indonesian embassy in Islamabad conducted an advance polling event on the premises of the embassy on Saturday.

The general elections in Indonesia are scheduled to be held on February 14. The event provided an opportunity for the Indonesian nationals in Pakistan to participate in the electoral process as well as fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among the Indonesians and their families. The elections will determine not only the new president and vice president but also parliamentary and local representatives.

The embassy had made arrangements to facilitate more than 800 citizens along with their families from all provinces of Pakistan to participate in the voting process. While another approximately 200 Indonesian nationals will exercise their democratic right to vote in the Indonesian consulate general in Karachi on Sunday.

In addition to serving as a platform for exercising political rights, the event transcended its primary purpose and evolved into a vibrant social gathering.

“This event is designed not only as a political event but also as a moment of sharing happiness for Indonesians despite political differences,” said Arrozi M. Munib, who is head of the Indonesian General Elections Committee in Islamabad.

“The ballot process was done smoothly with no significant hurdles on the ground,” added Zulfikar Alamsyah, the head of General Elections Supervisory Committee.

Moreover, the embassy extended invitations to Pakistani think-tanks and journalists, highlighting the significance of the electoral process in fostering strong democratic ties between Indonesia and Pakistan and further amplified the message of cross-border cooperation and mutual respect.

One of the distinctive features of the event was the marking of voters’ fingers with special purple ink, symbolising their active participation in the electoral process. This visible demonstration of civic duty underscored the commitment of voters to shaping the future of their homeland through democratic means.

Expressing his views on the election arrangements, Solehatun from Haripur expressed gratitude to those involved in the general election process, particular the embassy and all committees for efficiently organising the voting process, ensuring a smooth and democratic experience for all.

“All I saw were smiles and happiness,” said Babar, a Pakistani national from Gujranwala, who accompanied his Indonesian wife to the event.

Published in Dawn, February 11th, 2024