LEDANG: A total of 42 compound notices were issued for various offences committed during the Johor state election campaigning period, including five to former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, says Khairy Jamaluddin(pic).

       The Health Minister said that out of the total, 13 had been paid by the relevant parties while the rest have yet to be settled.

       "We have issued five compound notices to Najib but only one was successfully handed over to his officer on March 8.

       However, they did not want to accept the other four compound notices.

       "So, I think I have to hand it over to him personally," quipped Khairy.

       He said this when met by reporters after visiting Klinik Kesihatan Bukit Gambir, Ledang on Thursday (March 10).

       In the overall campaign, he hoped that all political parties would extend their cooperation and continue to adhere to the set standard operating procedures (SOP).

       "So far, based on observation, it has been well and I hope this will continue until the polling day is over," said the Health Minister.

       Polling day has been fixed on March 12.

       "Most importantly, we want voters to feel safe to go out and vote.

       "I also hope those who are contesting will continue to observe the SOPs including physical distance during their walkabouts.

       "I understand that it is hard so that is why I have asked my enforcement officers to use their discretion," he said.

       On a separate matter, Khairy said that the Health Ministry was looking into a SOP for periodic travellers who are commuting daily for work across the country’s borders.

       "We are looking to refine the SOP for periodic travellers and I will be announcing next week.

       "Perhaps they will have to undergo tests each week instead.

       "They also have to prove that they are negative within the week.

       "It will be hard if they are required to do the test daily and they have to pay for it," he said.