Sabah polls: No harmful or disruptive incidents to democratic process, says Home Minister

KOTA SAMARAHAN (Nov 29): There have been no incidents deemed harmful or disruptive to the democratic process in the ongoing Sabah state election, said Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

The Home Minister said the police briefing up to midnight showed a stable and orderly situation on the ground.

“As of midnight, based on the briefing I received, there were no incidents considered harmful or disruptive to the democratic process this morning,” he told reporters after officiating at Majlis Penyerahan Projek Kampung Angkat Madani.

Organised by the Registrar of Societies (RoS) Malaysia, it was held at SK Dato Muhammad Musa, Kampung Sindang Baru, here.

On whether police reports were lodged during the Sabah election campaign, Saifuddin confirmed that some complaints had been received.

“Yes, there were reports received, but these were mostly about removing party symbols and reports related to speeches made on political stages,” he said.

He noted that while he did not recall the exact number, the complaints were minimal and were being examined under the relevant laws.

“I can confirm there were reports, although small in number. Police will look at the relevant sections and the Acts that can be applied.

“Rest assured, when such reports are lodged, the police will take action in accordance with the law,” he said.

Saifuddin pointed out although Sabah has 9,000 police officers, assessments determined more were needed due to the state’s size and its 1.7 million registered voters.

“Sabah police strength is 9,000, but we assessed that we needed 10,000. So, we deployed personnel from Sarawak. We cannot deploy from Melaka or Johor — they are too far,” he said.

He added that leave for Sabah police personnel had been frozen to maximise manpower, while Sarawak’s assistance filled the remaining requirement.

“Don’t worry, public order in Sarawak today is unaffected. They are only providing assistance,” he assured.

Saifuddin also expressed appreciation to the officers serving throughout the Sabah state election.

“When an election takes place, ensuring safety is very important, and this responsibility is entrusted to the Royal Malaysia Police,” he said.

The election process — from nomination day to the campaign period and today’s polling — had remained orderly, he said.

“The Sabah Police Commissioner and all involved personnel arranged their work plans properly, positioned officers where needed, and are now safeguarding polling centres,” he said.

Saifuddin added police duties would continue beyond polling hours.

“When polling centres close this evening, they will ensure the vote-counting process runs smoothly and then escort ballot boxes to the tallying centres,” he said.

“The safety of ballot boxes, election officials, and voters carrying out their responsibilities is well maintained because of the excellent service by the Royal Malaysia Police. I salute them.”