BAGAN DATUK: People's Volunteer Corps (Rela) personnel will be stationed at every polling centres in the country to assist the police in managing the traffic during 14th General Election, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the suggestion by Rela director-general Zulkifli Abidin was lauded by the Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Mohamad Fuzi Harun, who believed the move would help lift the burden of the traffic policemen on duty, especially on polling day.
“Rela personnel will be stationed at every polling centres but the traffic policemen will also be there to ensure that everything run smoothly on that day.
"This is another recognition of Rela's good work to society,” he said, after launching the state-level 46th Rela Anniversary at the Waterfront here today. Also present were Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, Zulkifli and Fuzi.
“Rela will not take over the role of the traffic policemen. They are there only to assist. They will also be required to cast their votes early on the day. Once they have done so, volunteers can put on their uniforms and help man the traffic."
Zahid, who is also Home Minister, said the decision was made based on observations during the last two elections where haphazardly parked vehicles had blocked the traffic at several hotspots in the country and caused congestion.
“The IGP recently identified these hotspots and flashpoint areas and the police force will be present at these spots. We only want Rela to help with controlling the traffic so that the democratic process can go on smoothly." he said.
It was reported that there are more than 3.06 million Rela volunteers and officers throughout the country.