KUNAK: Election analyst Dr G. Manimaran believes the Election Commission (EC) will select appropriate dates for key stages of the 17th Sabah State Election, including nomination, postal voting, and polling day.
He said the EC would take into account Sabah’s multireligious setting, noting that Fridays are important for Muslims and weekends for Christians. Saturdays, he added, are ideal as most people are off work, allowing higher voter turnout.
“Most recent elections, including the 2020 state polls, were held on Saturdays to encourage participation,” said Manimaran, a former member of the Electoral Reform Committee (ERC).
He expects the election to be held before the SPM written exams begin on Nov 25, ensuring no overlap.
“I’m confident the EC will pick suitable dates to maximise voter turnout and avoid exam schedules,” he said.