Melaka polls: Stop all campaigning by 11.59pm tonight, says Fahmi

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 13 — All candidates contesting the 16th Melaka State Election have been reminded to cease all campaign activities, including on social media platforms, by 11.59pm tonight, said Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil.

He said the Election Commission (EC) reminder must be complied with, meaning no new posts or content that could be construed as campaigning should appear on candidates’ social media accounts from midnight tonight through tomorrow.

“So, no new posts on social media nearing midnight tonight. Put your messages up early; no one should campaign or post anything that could be interpreted as campaigning, including on social media accounts, tomorrow,” he said during his weekly press conference here today.

Fahmi, who is also Madani Government spokesman, said the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will continue monitoring to ensure there are no legal violations, including on social media.

Meanwhile, Fahmi advised voters to turn out early in view of forecast rain on polling day.

“For those travelling back to their hometowns to vote in Melaka, drive safely, ensure you get enough rest, make sure your vehicles are well-maintained and do not exceed the speed limit,” he said.

He also urged the public to refer to the EC’s official social media accounts, including on Facebook, Threads and X, for updates on the Melaka state election, as well as to obtain information from verified mainstream media sources.

“Refer to the official webpages and obtain information from verified mainstream media sources, not dubious accounts appearing on social media, as it is not impossible that certain parties may produce content of questionable authenticity,” he said.

Some 675,166 ordinary electors are eligible to cast their ballots tomorrow, with voter turnout expected to reach 70 per cent. — Bernama