REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, EDINBURGH - Scotland voted in a referendum on Thursday to choose whether to end the 307-year-old union with England and become an independent nation or stay within the United Kingdom - a decision which could have consequences across the globe.

From remote highlands and islands to the tough city estates of Glasgow, people were almost equally divided over a vote watched closely by Britain's allies, investors and restive regions at home and abroad.

Pre-voting opinion polls gave the "No" campaign - those in favor of remaining in the United Kingdom - a slight edge. But hundreds of thousands of people still making up their minds held the key as polling stations opened.

Tennis star Andy Murray sent a powerful last-minute message in support of the pro-independence "Yes" vote, tweeting "Let's do this" after months of silence on his views.

Many people see the choice as one of "hearts or heads" - whether emotional stirrings and yearnings would outweigh pragmatic concerns over the risks and uncertainty that an independent state would face. The issue has divided families and friends but also electrified this country of 5.3 million in months of debate.

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