Melaka polls: 189 forms sold, 45 deposits paid as EC prepares for nomination day

Election Commission staff make preparations for the nomination process for the N17 Bukit Katil state constituency at the 16th Melaka State Election nomination centre at Dewan Tun Ali, Bukit Katil in Melaka October 30, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Friday, 30 Oct 2026 12:25 PM MYT

MELAKA, Oct 30 — The Melaka state election saw 189 nomination forms sold as of last night, with 45 prospective candidates having paid their deposits, according to Election Commission (EC) chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun.

He said 28 nomination centres will open simultaneously across the state from 9 am to 10 am tomorrow for the nomination process.

“To ensure a smooth process, we urge all prospective candidates to arrive early so that EC staff can thoroughly verify their documents and avoid any issues that could affect their participation in the election.

“We do not want any problems that might prevent someone from contesting or cause similar complications. We are trying to avoid that,” he told reporters after observing a nomination simulation at the Ballroom Hall of Hang Jebat Stadium in Paya Rumput here today.

Commenting further on preparations for the day, Ramlan said all returning officers (ROs) and staff at the 28 nomination centres have received adequate training and are fully prepared to carry out their duties.

He said 80 assistant returning officers and other officers will assist the 28 ROs to ensure the process runs smoothly.

“Based on the simulation held in Paya Rumput, I am confident that tomorrow’s nomination process will be carried out well, including by first-time ROs,” he said.

Meanwhile, he reminded supporters of contesting parties present tomorrow to comply with directives and established regulations to ensure the nomination process takes place in a peaceful and orderly manner.

“The public is also advised to take note of possible road closures around nomination centres to facilitate movement and avoid congestion on the day,” he said.

Ramlan added that the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) forecasts fair weather tomorrow and hopes the nomination process will proceed without disruption.

The EC has set polling day for the Melaka state election on November 14, with nomination on October 31 and early voting on November 10. — Bernama