Police urge responsible conduct as election campaign opens smoothly with 26 permits approved

THE Royal Malaysia Police’s Johor contingent have urged all political parties and individuals involved in the 16th state election campaign to exercise restraint and ensure their activities do not disrupt public safety or public order throughout the state.

Johor police chief Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad said campaigners must adhere to responsible conduct and avoid any actions that could compromise security during the election period.

“To political parties and all individuals who will be assisting in the campaign, campaign in a responsible manner. Do not create anything that could disturb security and public order in Johor,” he said.

“We are fully prepared to deal with any eventuality should anything happen.”

He was speaking to reporters after observing nomination proceedings for the Puteri Wangsa state seat at SMK Bandar Dato Onn in Johor Bahru.

Ab Rahaman said a total of 26 campaign permits have been approved so far in conjunction with the state election, with further applications expected as campaigning intensifies.

He said all applications are assessed and approved by district police chiefs based on security considerations.

“So far, we have approved 26 campaign permits across Johor, and we expect more permits for public ceramah to be approved based on assessments by respective district police chiefs,” Harian Metro quoted him saying today.

Commenting on nomination day, he said proceedings at all 56 nomination centres across Johor had gone smoothly without any incidents affecting public order.

As of 10am, police had not received any reports of untoward incidents since the nomination process began at 8am.

A total of 4,832 police personnel were deployed across the state to ensure smooth operations, supported by 437 traffic officers tasked with monitoring traffic flow and escorting political figures and party leaders attending nomination centres.

Ab Rahaman said there was some congestion in several areas due to road closures, but it did not significantly disrupt overall traffic movement.

He added that supporters of various political parties had gathered at nomination centres to show backing for their candidates, but the situation remained under control.

“Alhamdulillah, everything has gone smoothly,” he said, adding that campaigning will continue until 11.59pm on July 10. - June 27, 2026