Social distancing put into practice

 

All systems go: EC staffer Nurul Farah Illyani Zulastry adding the final touches in preparation for Nomination Day. — Bernama

melakaMELAKA: Nominations for the Melaka state election is set to be a subdued affair with the Covid-19 standard operating procedure for polling to come into full force, with candidates “having that lonely feeling” as they arrive at the 28 designated centres.

Unlike the customary practice of shouting slogans and having group processions in a psychological show of strength, supporters will not be allowed to accompany candidates as the formalities begin today.

This time around, those contesting can only be accompanied by a nominee and a supporter to file their candidacy.

The Election Commission has announced an unprecedented ban on political gatherings and events throughout the 12-day campaigning period.

To make things water tight, the EC is expected to come up with even tighter guidelines today on the polls.

Although most of those involved in the polls are not exactly rejoicing, some came out to say that there was no other choice with Covid-19 still very much a health hazard.

Dr Muhammad Akmal Saleh, who is Umno’s candidate for the Merlimau state seat, was among those who welcomed the EC’s strict stand.

The first-timer should know best, being a medical practitioner.

“This is the new norm on how elections should be held. I think that it is a good move and this new approach must be adhered to by all,” he added.

He said the strict guidelines must be viewed objectively as the authorities wanted to avoid the emergence of new Covid-19 clusters.

“We need to prevent gatherings. I will be focusing mainly on social media campaigning and perhaps distributing flyers and banners,” said the Jasin Umno Youth chief.

Datuk Koh Chin Han, who is contesting the Bemban seat as an MCA candidate under the Barisan Nasional, echoed the view, saying the rules were in everyone’s best interest.

“The usual group procession will not be possible this time around but it is no big deal. The hype is not reflective of the groundwork and service to the people.

“It should not be seen as important... it is not necessary,’’ he said yesterday.

Koh said he would be ready early and head to the nomination centre in Jasin town with his nominee and a supporter.

“Since no gathering is allowed, I will ensure that only those whose presence is necessary will be at the nomination centre,” he added.

As for Benjamin Low Chin Hong, who is the MCA’s Kota Laksamana candidate, it will be a whole new ball game.

“For a state election to be held amid a pandemic, it has to have many changes. But just creating hype is not our focus,” he said.

Low, who is also contesting for the first time, said it was more important to keep voters informed in order for them to make the right choice.

He pledged to be at the nomination centre early to make sure everything proceeded smoothly.

Pakatan Harapan National Youth chief Howard Lee, who is actively involved in the Opposition’s campaign, said political gatherings were not considered “essential” during a pandemic, but contended that physical campaigning was important.

“If you want to have an election despite advice and sentiments suggesting otherwise, one should at least allow some semblance of a normal election. Being unable to reach out to voters door-to-door and not introducing candidates to the voters, for me, is an assault on democracy,” he added. - Star