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THE nomination process for the upcoming Ayer Kuning state by-election will take place this Saturday, 12 April, at Dewan Merdeka, according to the Election Commission (EC).
In an official statement released today, EC Secretary Datuk Ikmalrudin Ishak confirmed that prospective candidates must submit their nomination papers between 9:00am and 10:00am to the Returning Officer at the designated nomination centre.
Ikmalrudin encouraged all aspiring candidates to complete their nomination forms and conduct preliminary checks with either the Returning Officer’s office or the Perak State Election Office prior to nomination day.
“To facilitate a smooth process, candidates are also advised to make their election deposit payments in advance and bring proof of payment—i.e., the official receipt—on nomination day,” he said.
He also reminded political party candidates to submit written authorisation for the use of their party’s logo during the nomination process.
Ikmalrudin underscored that all candidates who have paid the campaign materials deposit are subject to the Election Offences Act 1954 [Act 5] and local authority by-laws.
This includes restrictions on the use of musical instruments or loudspeakers for political campaigning via vehicles, as well as the legal requirement to remain outside a 50-metre radius from the nomination centre boundary on nomination day.
“Candidates and political parties must strictly adhere to all election laws, rules, codes of conduct, and instructions issued by the EC, local authorities, and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to ensure that the nomination process proceeds smoothly and without incident,” he added.
The by-election for the Ayer Kuning state seat was called following the sudden passing of incumbent assemblyman Ishsam Shahruddin, 58, who died after collapsing while playing football at the Bandaraya Stadium in Penang on 25 February.
The EC has scheduled polling day for 26 April, with early voting set to take place on 22 April. The nomination of candidates on 12 April will formally kickstart the campaign period for all contesting parties.
This by-election is being closely watched, as it could potentially shift the political balance in the Perak State Legislative Assembly. – April 10, 2025