THE Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) will focus on 15 “hot spot” locations across Sabah during the 17th General Election (PRN17), with a total of 9,300 officers deployed to safeguard all 73 contested state constituencies.
Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said Kota Kinabalu and the eastern coastal regions are expected to be the main areas of attention.
“We have several areas of focus, first in Kota Kinabalu and also in the eastern coastal areas of Sabah. Deployment will cover before, during and after the election. If anything arises beyond control, we will ensure the areas are secured,” he said at a press conference following a special briefing with PDRM personnel at the Kota Kinabalu District Police Headquarters on Friday.
Mohd Khalid added that active non-governmental organisations and politically sensitive locations would also be closely monitored.
“With the deployment made by Datuk Jauteh Dikun, Commissioner of Police Sabah, I am confident that security conditions can be well managed,” he said.
The nomination process on Saturday, taking place at 25 locations, will receive particular attention.
A total of 4,300 officers will be assigned to maintain order and smooth traffic flow during the event.
“We have also directed our officers, including assignments from the Criminal Investigation Department, to ensure that security runs smoothly and efficiently.
“We will ensure that traffic flows seamlessly to facilitate all involved,” he added. - November 14, 2025
