984 Malaysian soldiers abroad start voting

Some 984 soldiers involved in United Nations (UN) peace missions abroad exercised their right as postal voters starting yesterday.

Joint Forces Commander, Vice Admiral Datuk Seri Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin said 913 soldiers voted in Lebanon, 19 in Mindanao, 4 in Afghanistan and 48 in other missions.

"The postal voting is expected to be completed latest tomorrow taking into account the weather, security and logistics," he told reporters to send off the Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) 5 second women's group for Lebanon.

Ahmad Kamarulzaman said the group of 11 comprise four officers and seven members, eight from the army, two from the navy and one from the air force.

"The presence of women in missions is much required specifically to deal with cases involving women, the elderly and children," he added.

Meanwhile, Capt Puteri Haati Mustapha, 29, who is leading the mission said she had mixed feelings since this was her first overseas mission.

"I have mixed feelings about leaving my family. However, I am grateful for being selected for the mission," she added.

Capt Iryanti Ngadiman, 33, said the mission was eagerly awaited as it was a platform to gain experience overseas.

She attributed her participation in the mission to encouragement from her husband and family members.