MELAKA (Oct 30): The Melaka state election saw 189 nomination forms sold as of on Thursday (Oct 29) night, with 45 prospective candidates having paid their deposits, according to Election Commission (EC) chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun.
He said 28 nomination centres will open simultaneously across the state from 9am to 10am on Saturday for the nomination process.
"To ensure a smooth process, we urge all prospective candidates to arrive early so that EC staff can thoroughly verify their documents and avoid any issues that could affect their participation in the election.
"We do not want any problems that might prevent someone from contesting or cause similar complications. We are trying to avoid that," he told reporters after observing a nomination simulation at the Ballroom Hall of Hang Jebat Stadium in Paya Rumput here Friday.
Commenting further on preparations for the day, Ramlan said all returning officers (ROs) and staff at the 28 nomination centres have received adequate training and are fully prepared to carry out their duties.
He said 80 assistant returning officers and other officers will assist the 28 ROs to ensure the process runs smoothly.
"Based on the simulation held in Paya Rumput, I am confident that tomorrow's nomination process will be carried out well, including by first-time ROs," he said.
Meanwhile, he reminded supporters of contesting parties present on Saturday to comply with directives and established regulations to ensure the nomination process takes place in a peaceful and orderly manner.
"The public is also advised to take note of possible road closures around nomination centres to facilitate movement and avoid congestion on the day," he said.
Ramlan added that the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) forecasts fair weather on Saturday and hopes the nomination process will proceed without disruption.
The EC has set polling day for the Melaka state election on Nov 14, with nomination on Oct 31 and early voting on Nov 10.
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