KOTA KINABALU: Approximately 1.76 million registered voters will be casting their votes in the Sabah elections today.
This significant state election will influence the results of a contest that commenced on 15 November, as voters select state representatives they trust to foster progress and development in their respective areas.
A total of 882 polling centers, featuring 3,558 polling streams throughout Sabah, will open at 7:30 am, with closing times staggered between 12:00 pm and 5:30 pm.
Earlier this week, on Tuesday, 17,615 early voters, consisting of police and military personnel along with their spouses, successfully cast their votes without any issues.
The Election Commission (EC) has designated 25 returning officers, supported by 196 assistant returning officers, to ensure the smooth operation of polling day.
The total estimated cost for the state election is RM116.8 million.
Additionally, over 12,000 police personnel will be deployed to uphold order throughout the day.
The EC anticipates early results to be available around 10 pm, depending on weather conditions.
According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), rain is expected in various regions of Sabah this morning, with thunderstorms likely in the interior during the afternoon. Rain is also predicted in some areas tonight.
This election features several competitive races, with Tulid experiencing the most intense competition among 14 candidates. Bandau, Tamparuli, and Inanam each have 13 candidates contesting, while Banggi has 12 candidates competing for the seat.
In total, 596 candidates are vying for 73 state seats, which includes 525 men and 71 women. Independent candidates represent the largest group with 74 contenders, followed by Warisan (73), Parti Impian Sabah (72), Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (55), Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (46), Barisan Nasional (45), Perikatan Nasional (42), Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (40), Pertubuhan Kinabalu Progresif Bersatu (25), and Pakatan Harapan (22).
Also in the fray are Parti Kebangsaan Sabah (20), Parti Kerjasama Anak Negeri (17), Parti Perpaduan Rakyat Sabah (16), Parti Bumi Kenyalang (14), Parti Rumpun Sabah (7), Parti Maju Sabah (6), Parti Damai Sabah (5), Perjuangan Rakyat (6), Pertubuhan Gemilang Anak Sabah (3), Parti Bangsa Malaysia (3), and Parti Aspirasi Rakyat Sarawak (3). Parti Bersatu Sasa Malaysia and Pertubuhan Perpaduan Rakyat Kebangsaan Sabah are each fielding one candidate.
Source-The Vibes.
