Malaysian voters are expected to go to the polls next year to choose the government that will lead them for the next five years. Every general election is important; however the upcoming election is crucial as it coincides with a transition in the top leadership of the country.

As Christians, we know that "there is no authority except that which God has established" (Rom. 13:1). The opportunity for us to be involved in the process by which God institutes authority – voting – must therefore be regarded not only as a privilege but also a great responsibility.

We can take four steps to ensure that we properly appropriate this honour and fulfil our duties as Christians and citizens of this country.

• First, ensure that you have registered to vote. You are eligible to vote if you are (1) a Malaysian citizen, (2) at least 21 years of age, and (3) a resident of an electoral district. You will need an identity card, which furnishes proof of these three things. (Note that you can only vote in the constituency that corresponds to the address in your identity card.) If you have never registered to vote, you can now do so throughout the year at the State Election Office or any designated post offices. When filling in the Borang A, ensure that you clearly state your religion as ‘Christianity’. (For the location of the nearest registration centres or to check your eligibility to vote, refer to the Election Commission’s website at www.spr.gov.my)
  
  
• Second, either in your church or community, organise meetings with the potential candidates for federal and state seats to discuss issues of deep concern to the constituency and the country. This is vital if you are to make informed choices about the suitability of the various candidates. It allows the values, views and interests of the Christian community to be made known. Face-to-face meetings also help ensure greater accountability on the part of the elected representatives.
  
  
• Third, pray for the smooth running of the elections. We are instructed to individually and collectively pray for "kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." (1 Tim. 2:1–2) We should never take our freedoms in this country for granted. In addition to the holding of peaceful and civilised elections, Malaysian Christians ought also to pray for an abiding fear of God, national righteousness, good governance, political and religious pluralism and the upholding of the Federal Constitution. Pray against all those who would incite unrest and undermine the country by restricting rights and introducing political and religious extremism.
  
  
• Fourth, vote on polling day and encourage all Christians to do so.

The outcome of elections may sometimes hinge on voter turnout. Not casting your vote could have as much impact as your casting it. It is imperative that voting be undertaken regardless of the inconvenience. It is an act of stewardship and integral to fulfilling our obligations to God and the country.