JASIN: A Barisan Nasional event on Sunday (Nov 14) at a restaurant in Selandak - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob was present - 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 due to failure to ensure social distancing during the event.

       “Yes, that’s all I can say,” said the Jasin district health officer who wants to remain anonymous.

       Ismail Sabri arrived around noon at the restaurant in Selandar near Asahan, where he was received by about 60 party supporters.

       This is the first visit to the state by the premier since campaigning for the Melaka elections started on Nov 8.

       Ismail Sabri was well-received by locals here, where many surrounded him for selfies.

       Prior to Ismail Sabri’s arrival, Barisan advisory board chairman Datuk Seri Najib Razak had also met locals at the same restaurant in Selandar, that’s situated next to the Asahan Barisan district polling centre.

       Najib was also well received by locals here, as locals swarmed the restaurant in hopes to catch a glimpse of the former prime minister.

       As Najib left the restaurant, he was also flocked by locals who were eager to snap a selfie with the Pekan MP.

       Reporters attempted to approach the Barisan polling centre chief, but he refused to divulge any details.

       “If I say anything, then I’ll be fined again,” he said briefly, before leaving the restaurant.

       The EC has banned ceramah, lectures, physical campaigning, house-to-house visits, walkabouts and distribution of pamphlets to the public throughout the campaign period.

       Early voting is on Nov 16 and polling is set for Nov 20 to elect representatives to the 28 seats in the Melaka State Legislative Assembly.