A different kind of buzz at Bukit Katil nomination centre

MELAKA: A nomination centre is usually abuzz with political supporters rallying behind their candidates, but the scene at Dewan Tun Ali in Bukit Katil today offered a different spectacle, with a children's football match and preparations for a wedding reception adding to the activity.

While candidates and supporters gathered for the nomination process for the 16th Melaka state election, children were busy chasing the ball on the football field, while a marquee was being set up nearby for a wedding reception.

The unusual mix of activities brought together three very different occasions at one location - the political contest for voters' support, the children's pursuit of victory on the football field and preparations to celebrate a newlywed couple.

The football match was part of the Rimau Melaka Super League, involving 12 teams in the Under-8 and Under-10 categories.

Crew assistant Afiz Abdul Ghani said the league, which involved a total of 35 teams, had been running for the past three months and was scheduled to conclude on Nov 15.

"The teams are from Melaka, with a few from Johor, and the league champions will represent Melaka at the national level, " he told Bernama.

Meanwhile, preparations for the wedding reception continued with a large tent set up near the nomination centre, adding to the unusual scene on nomination day.

Candidates and supporters of the contesting parties were expected to arrive from 8.30am, ahead of the nomination process scheduled from 9am to 10am.

The Election Commission (EC) has set Nov 14 as polling day, while early voting will take place on Nov 10.