NIBONG TEBAL: Voters in Sungai Bakap here can be assured of their safety throughout the by-election period, especially when they come out to cast their votes on July 6.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution said a total of 600 policemen would be on-duty throughout the by-election period.

He said the 600-strong manpower is considered reasonable.

"As such, the voters need not worry and need not fear to fulfil their duty as a member of the electorate.

"At the same time, we also advise all stakeholders to abide by the rules to ensure the smooth running of the by-election process," he told newsmen after a gathering with the Indian community in Sungai Bakap here today.

The Election Commission (EC) has fixed July 6 for the Sungai Bakap by-election.

The by-election is being held following the death of its assemblyman, Pas' Nor Zamri Latiff on May 24. 

According to Saifuddin, each time during elections, including by-elections, one of the most important components is safety.

He said this was where the police, the biggest enforcement agency in the country, comes in.

Saifuddin said he was briefed by Penang police chief Datuk Hamzah Ahmad and his team on the safety aspect which encompassed three phases from now until polling day.

"From now until nomination day, it involves preparations in terms of logistics and manpower strength needed. Then next comes the gathering of information in terms of candidates' movements.

"Secondly, is the phase from nomination day and the campaigning period. This is important to ensure that throughout the campaigning period, the people feel safe.

"This is because elections is a part of democracy. There can't be elements which can cause worry, more so in the aspect of safety," he added, noting that the final phase is on polling day itself.

So far, the unity government and Perikatan Nasional have named their candidates for the by-election.

The unity government will field former educator DrJoohari Ariffin, 60, while PN will field Abidin Ismail, the former special officer of the late Nor Zamri.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/1064207/saifuddin-assures-sungai-bakap-voters-their-safety-throughout-election