CANDIDATES and political parties contesting the Melaka state election have been warned against raising sensitive issues involving race, religion and the royal institution (3R), as police seek to prevent tensions during the campaign period.
Melaka police chief Datuk Dzulkhairi Mukhtar said all candidates, parties and supporters must comply with the law and avoid provocative actions that could disrupt public order.
Police have issued 29 permits for political talks since campaigning began on Saturday, with Melaka Tengah recording the highest number at 11, followed by Alor Gajah with 10 and Jasin with eight.
Dzulkhairi said no reports of disturbances had been received so far, although police had received one report involving the vandalism of campaign materials.
He also reminded political parties to ensure that campaign materials, including flags, posters and banners, were installed in accordance with regulations, particularly at traffic-light junctions and along major roads where they could obstruct motorists’ views.
He said places of worship, including mosques, churches and temples, must not be used for election campaigning.
Government and local authority premises, vehicles and communication equipment were also prohibited from being used for campaign activities.
"Public buildings must also not be used for political gatherings or campaigning without written permission from the authorities responsible for the buildings or premises," he said in a statement today.
He urged all parties to campaign maturely and responsibly to ensure the democratic process proceeded peacefully and in an orderly manner. - November 2, 2026