JOHOR BARU: Candidates and political parties contesting in the upcoming state election have been told to comply with the local council's regulations and avoid putting up campaign posters at locations that could obstruct traffic or endanger public safety.
Johor Baru mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad said campaign materials must only be displayed at locations approved by the Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) and should not obstruct public roads, pedestrian walkways or motorists' visibility.
He said enforcement action would be taken against those who failed to comply with the regulations.
"Political banners and buntings cannot be placed indiscriminately. They must be installed only at approved locations and in accordance with the council's guidelines," he told reporters after the city council's full board meeting at Menara MBJB on Tuesday (June 30).
Haffiz said MBJB had not encountered any issues involving political banners so far but would continue monitoring the situation as campaigning activities intensified.
"At the moment, there have been no issues involving political banners within MBJB's jurisdiction. Nevertheless, our enforcement officers will continue carrying out inspections to ensure all parties comply with the regulations," he said.
He said those who erected banners without approval or at prohibited locations could face a compound of RM200 per day, while offences involving obstruction of public roads or the installation of banners on public buildings could carry fines of up to RM2,000.
Haffiz added that unauthorised banners and buntings would be removed by the council, while repeat offenders could have their permits suspended or revoked.
He urged all political parties to cooperate with MBJB and adhere to the council's requirements to ensure campaigning was conducted in a safe, orderly and responsible manner without inconveniencing the public.
Meanwhile, Election Commission (EC) chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun said the official campaign period has been set from after the close of nominations until 11.59pm on July 10, a day before polling.
He said under the EC regulations, candidates are required to pay a deposit for campaign materials and comply with the by-laws of the relevant local authorities when displaying or distributing campaign materials featuring candidates, party logos or images of party leaders.
“Campaign materials such as advertisements, flyers and posters must also display the names and addresses of both the printer and publisher, with the exception of flags, party symbol posters and images of party leaders or candidates.
"Campaign materials containing content that incites hatred, promotes racial sentiments, touches on religious sensitivities or creates hostility are strictly prohibited," he said.
