Melaka polls: Run clean campaigns, steer clear of 3R issues, Teo Nie Ching tells candidates

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said that while heated verbal exchanges may occur during campaigning, all quarters must run clean campaigns and steer clear of sensitive topics. — Bernama pic

First Published: Sunday, 01 Nov 2026 1:00 PM MYT

KULAI, Nov 1 — Political parties and candidates contesting the upcoming Melaka State Election have been reminded not to issue or distribute materials touching on 3R (religion, race, and royalty) issues throughout the campaign period.

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said that while heated verbal exchanges may occur during campaigning, all quarters must run clean campaigns and steer clear of sensitive topics.

“I urge all political parties, candidates, and supporters involved not to put forward any materials touching on 3R issues. Let us run a clean campaign,” she said after attending the Bukit Permai state constituency Deepavali contribution presentation programme at the Arulmigu Mariamman Temple here today.

The Election Commission (EC) has set Nov 14 as polling day for the Melaka state election, with early voting on Nov 10.

Meanwhile, commenting on cybersecurity, Teo stressed that the recent system breach in Kluang should serve as a wake-up call to all government agencies and local authorities.

She said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) had not received any formal request for assistance from the Kluang Municipal Council (MPK), but the commission stands ready to provide technical support, advice, and expertise if needed.

Teo also cautioned against taking cybersecurity lightly, given people’s high reliance on the internet and cloud computing.

“Do not assume hackers will not target our systems; the risk is real and very high,” she said, stressing the importance of allocating an adequate budget to strengthen cybersecurity and conduct regular security audits.

Earlier, video clips circulated on social media showing several public LED display screens in Kluang hacked by irresponsible individuals to display obscene content.

Following the incident, MPK said in a statement on Facebook that an investigation was underway with system vendors to identify the root cause, take corrective action, and enhance system security.

The municipal council apologised for the inconvenience and public concern, reiterating that it strongly condemned the act and would not hesitate to take legal action against anyone attempting to tarnish its reputation. — Bernama