By-election: Johor police suspend leaves for personnel

JOHOR BAHRU - Johor police have decided to suspend all leaves for officers and personnel during the Pulai Parliament and Simpang Jeram State Assembly elections in the state.

The state police made this decision to ensure that they can fully monitor and enforce rules during the entire by-election period.

Johor police chief Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat said this step is being taken to ensure they can observe and enforce rules properly from the campaign period until the polling day on Sept 9.

He saidthat the entire Johor police force, consisting of 3,500 members, is enough to ensure a smooth process starting from the nomination day on Saturday.

"At this time, there's no need to get help from other police contingents.

"The state police is sufficient to ensure a peaceful election without any disruptions.

"Due to this, the leave for all personnel and officers in each division will be frozen to ensure that tasks are carried out effectively during the Pulai Parliament by-election and the Simpang Jeram state election," he said during a press conference at the state police headquarters here today.

He also gave a reminder to all supporters and candidates to avoid provoking any conflicts during the campaign period and to show respect towards one another.

"I want to remind everyone involved to conduct their campaigns in an organised and disciplined manner, without damaging campaign materials and the like.

"Throughout the campaign period, it's important to avoid discussing sensitive issues related to religion, royalty, and race.

"This applies to campaigns on social media as well; everyone must continue to follow the laws," he added.