US citizens in Malaysia told to send ballots as early as possible for presidential election

KUALA LUMPUR: United States (US) citizens residing in Malaysia were told to send their absentee ballots for the US presidential election scheduled on Nov 3 as early as possible as ballots sent through the mail will take approximately four weeks’ time to reach various states within the country.

The spokesperson of the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Michelle Kevern, said the embassy is committed to ensuring that US citizens abroad are aware of their right to vote and have the tools and resources to do so.

“The embassy communicates regularly to US citizens regarding options available to register to vote and to vote from overseas.

“It takes roughly four weeks for the ballots from the embassy in Kuala Lumpur to reach various states within the United States via mail.

“Each state in the US has their own deadline, so voters must follow guidelines from their respective local and state officials,” she said in a statement via WhatsApp to Bernama.

She said when returning physical absentee ballots from overseas, US citizens may do so through international mail, professional courier service, or by dropping their ballots at embassies and consulates.

The election watch party which is hosted by the embassy for members of the diplomatic community and media which features live election results is canceled this year due to restrictions in view of COVID-19.

-- BERNAMA