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THE Election Commission (EC) is projecting a voter turnout of around 65 per cent for the Kinabatangan by-election on Jan 24, in line with participation levels recorded during Sabah’s state elections last November.
EC chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun said the estimate was based on recent voting trends and urged eligible voters to fulfil their civic responsibility in both the Kinabatangan parliamentary contest and the Lamag state constituency by-election.
He said this after overseeing the nomination process at Dewan Sri Lamag on Saturday, where all five candidates successfully submitted their nomination papers without any rejections.
Ramlan said the nomination proceedings were conducted smoothly, with strong cooperation from party supporters contributing to a calm and orderly atmosphere throughout the process.
As the campaign period officially begins, the EC has established four Election Campaign Enforcement Teams to monitor campaign activities by all candidates contesting the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and the Lamag state seat.
Ramlan said a total of 39 election observers from nine organisations have been accredited to monitor both by-elections to help ensure transparency and integrity in the electoral process.
He said the campaign period commenced immediately after the candidates were officially declared by the returning officer and will run until 11.59 pm on Jan 23, 2026.
During this period, all candidates and political parties have been reminded to strictly comply with election laws and campaign regulations.
“Candidates who have paid deposits for campaign materials are subject to the by-laws of the relevant local authorities for the purpose of displaying and distributing campaign materials that contain the candidate’s photograph, party emblem or symbol, and images of party leaders they represent.
“Permissible campaign materials such as advertisements, leaflets, stickers and posters must contain the name and address of the printer and publisher, except for flags, party symbol posters and images of party leaders or contesting candidates.
“Campaign materials containing words that may incite hatred, promote racial sentiments, touch on religious sensitivities or constitute provocation that could lead to hostility are strictly prohibited,” he said in a statement.
Ramlan also expressed hope that all permitted campaign activities would proceed in a harmonious manner and in full compliance with the law and established regulations.
“The EC extends its congratulations and appreciation to the returning officers and their teams for carrying out their duties smoothly today,” he said, adding that the Commission remains ready to introduce further improvements should the need arise as the by-election process continues. - January 10, 2026
