JASIN: A Barisan Nasional event at a restaurant in Selandar attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has been slapped with a RM20,000 fine.

       According to a Jasin district health officer, the fine was issued to the Barisan polling centre chief for failure to ensure physical distancing at the event.

       “Yes, that’s all I can say,” said the health officer who requested anonymity.

       The polling centre chief, when approached by newsmen, refused to divulge any details.

       “If I say anything, then I’ll be fined again,” he said before leaving the restaurant, which is situated next to the Barisan’s Asahan polling centre.

       The Prime Minister, who was visiting the Asahan constituency, arrived around noon and was received by about 60 party supporters.

       This was Ismail Sabri’s first appearance since campaigning for the Melaka state election started last Monday.

       Prior to his arrival, Barisan advisory board chairman Datuk Seri Najib Razak also met locals at the same restaurant.

       The Election Commission has banned ceramah, lectures, physical campaigning, house-to-house visits and walkabouts during the campaign period.