Kinabatangan: The results of the Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections are expected to be known as early as 10 pm on Saturday (Jan 24), according to the Election Commission (EC).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, EC chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun stated that the projected timing takes into account geographical factors and the locations of polling centres, some of which are situated quite far away, particularly in interior areas. He assured that all ballot boxes would be transported to the official vote-tallying centre at Dewan Sri Lamag within the stipulated timeframe, emphasizing that there is no excuse for delays.
Ramlan highlighted the logistical challenges faced during the by-elections, including unpredictable weather conditions and the need for special transportation services. Helicopter services are being used at eight polling centres, while boat transport is needed at one polling centre at Sekolah Kebangsaan Tundun Bohangin to ferry ballot boxes from remote areas to the official tallying centre.
To mitigate the risk of ballot boxes being stranded due to bad weather, as occurred during the last Sabah state election, the EC has taken proactive measures by closing several polling centres in interior areas earlier than usual. Ramlan mentioned that lessons were learned from previous delays, and adjustments have been made to prevent similar occurrences.
Additionally, the EC has enhanced technical preparedness, providing Starlink facilities to ensure stable internet connectivity and adequate power supply support throughout the vote-tallying process. The commission is targeting a voter turnout of more than 65 percent for both by-elections.
On early voting, Ramlan reported that out of 196 police personnel, 189 will vote early, while the remaining seven will vote by post. As of 9 am today, 38 personnel had completed voting for the Kinabatangan by-election, while 44 personnel had voted in the Lamag by-election.
Ramlan also noted that as of yesterday, no complaints had been received regarding election offences. However, one complaint was reported this morning, though no official report has been received yet. He assured that the election process has been running smoothly without any serious incidents.
The Kinabatangan by-election features a three-cornered contest involving Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar of Barisan Nasional (BN), Datuk Saddi Abdul Rahman of Warisan, and Goldam Hamid (Independent). The Lamag seat sees a straight fight between Mohd Ismail Ayob (BN) and Mazliwati Abdul Malek (Warisan). The by-elections were necessitated by the death of incumbent Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin on Dec 5 last year.
The Kinabatangan constituency comprises three state seats - Sukau, Lamag, and Kuamut - with a total of 48,722 registered voters, while the Lamag seat has 13,899 electors. For the by-elections, a total of 36 ordinary polling centres comprising 117 polling streams will be used.