Voters Urged to Cast Ballots Early in Kinabatangan By-Election Due to Uncertain Weather

Information and photo by Sabah Information Department 

KINABATANGAN: Voters in the Kinabatangan by-election (PRK) have been advised to cast their ballots early this Saturday to avoid potential disruptions caused by unpredictable weather conditions.

Election Commission (SPR) chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun said weather conditions in the area typically deteriorate in the afternoon, which could affect the voting process as well as the transportation of ballot boxes.

“Voters are advised to remain alert to weather conditions and to come out and vote early. As a proactive measure, the polling centre at SK Karamuak, Kuamut will close at 2pm instead of the usual 3pm,” he said.

Ramlan explained that the earlier closing time is intended to ensure ballot boxes can be transported out as early as possible and to prevent a recurrence of issues experienced in the past.

“I hope residents in the affected area are aware of this change,” he said after inspecting the early voting centre at Teratak Ibu, Kinabatangan District Police Headquarters (IPD), on Tuesday.

He added that the results of the Kinabatangan by-election are expected to be known as early as 10pm, depending on the distance and logistical conditions of the polling centres involved.

To encourage voter turnout and ensure a smooth democratic process, Ramlan said various outreach methods have been implemented, including information dissemination through social media platforms.

“I hope voters will not feel discouraged even though we have voted recently. Please continue to come out and vote on the 24th,” he said.

A total of 189 early voters, comprising officers and personnel from the Kinabatangan District Police Headquarters, are involved in the early voting process.