Sg Bakap polls: Special police team formed to monitor 3R issues

NIBONG TEBAL: A special police team will monitor 3R (race, religion, royalty) issues during political party campaigning and ceramah for the Sungai Bakap state by-election.

Penang police chief Comm Datuk Hamzah Ahmad told a press conference at South Seberang Perai district headquarters here Friday (June 21) that candidate representatives of the parties involved have been briefed on dos and don'ts for the campaign period.

Comm Hamzah advised the public and party representatives to avoid using 3R issues to gain support.

"We also advise the contesting parties to submit applications or permits earlier.

"This allows the police, in particular, to make preparations to control and oversee any speeches or assemblies held, ensuring safety and the smooth conducting of these activities," he added.

He said one application for a ceramah permit has been received so far.

In terms of preparedness, Comn Hamzah said 600 police officers and personnel will be on standby to ensure safety during the by-election period.

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"Police presence will be increased to 800 on polling day," he said.

This was to ensure safety and to encourage the electorate to come out and vote, he added.

The by-election was called following the death of its incumbent Nor Zamri Latiff of PAS on May 24 due to stomach inflammation.

Nomination Day has been set for Saturday (June 22), with early voting on July 2 and polling on July 6.