KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 11 (Bernama) -- A decision on the proposal to include journalists in the category of postal voters is expected to be reached on Feb 15, said Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili, chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Electoral Reform.

"There was a proposal to include journalists in this category at a PSC meeting last week," he told a news conference after the launch of the 2012 National Science and Innovation Movement (SGI2012) logo and song here today.

He said it was also proposed that doctors and nurses who would be on duty during the general election be included in the category as well.

"The PSC discussed the matter with the Health Department and was informed that only four per cent of the 8,000 doctors and 100,000 nurses would be on duty each day. So, this is not an issue because they can take turns to vote," he added.

Meanwhile, at the launch of the SGI2012, Dr Ongkili, who is Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, said the nation's development through the acculturation of science and innovation among the people is important for mutual progress.

"The declaration of 2012 as the National Science and Innovation Movement Year reflects the government's commitment to pay serious attention to economic transformation through science, technology and innovation," he said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak is scheduled the launch the National Science and Innovation Movement Year on March 24 at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.