THE Election Commission (EC) has set the stage for Sabah’s 17th State Election (PRN17) with a smooth-running nomination process today, as candidates across the state prepare to begin their campaigns.
A total of 25 Returning Officers (ROs) and 196 Assistant Election Officers, supported by 33,002 election staff, are overseeing the proceedings at 25 nomination centres for all 73 contested seats.
Candidates had a one-hour window, from 9 to 10 am, to submit their nomination papers, after which the ROs will announce the official list of eligible candidates.
Following the close of nominations, the election campaign will kick off, giving candidates just two weeks to canvass for votes before polling day.
The EC has reminded political parties and supporters to maintain public order during today’s nomination process and to refrain from any provocative actions.
With the filing of nominations complete, the campaign period will officially begin, and candidates will have two weeks to reach out to voters across Sabah.
Campaign strategies are expected to vary, with candidates using a mix of social media outreach, community engagement at local markets, door-to-door visits, public rallies, and travel to remote islands and rural areas to meet with voters.
The election period will see candidates across the state navigating challenging terrain and engaging in grassroots-level activities to secure voter support. - November 15, 2025
