POLICE have assured voters that security arrangements for the Kinabatangan parliamentary by-election are under full control and operating at the highest level of preparedness, as authorities move to ensure a smooth and orderly electoral process.
Acting Director of the Department of Internal Security and Public Order, Datuk Fisol Salleh, said a total of 926 police officers and personnel have been mobilised to oversee security throughout the by-election period.
He said police have also approved 27 permits out of 76 applications submitted for campaign-related activities, adding that all applications would be processed in accordance with established procedures.
“All these permits will be processed. What is important is that I see every contesting party here giving their cooperation to us. In terms of preparation, there are no major issues so far. There has only been one report of misconduct, but it has not affected the conduct of the election,” he said.
Fisol was speaking to reporters after attending a special briefing with police personnel involved in the Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections at the Sandakan District Police Headquarters.
He said 118 security personnel will cast their ballots during early voting on January 20.
According to Fisol, security operations for the by-election involve two police districts, Kinabatangan and Beluran, although overall operational command and responsibility rest with the Kinabatangan district police chief.
He also advised voters to turn out early on polling day to ease logistical arrangements and ensure that the voting process proceeds in an orderly and safe manner.
“Police are committed to ensuring security, public order and the smooth running of this by-election until it is fully concluded,” he said. - January 16, 2026
