MERSING: The police are urging all political parties to adhere to the new standard operating procedures (SOP) introduced by the Election Commission (EC) to avoid any stern action being taken against them.

       Johor police chief Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat said a total of 3,000 policemen and officers will be placed at all 56 nomination stations on Feb 26.

       “We will also help the Health Ministry officers patrol the areas and we will issue compounds if there are any breaches of SOP.

       “So I hope that all political parties and their supporters will be able to abide by the rules to make sure every process runs smoothly,” he said after the Dialog Session Programme with Felda Tenggaroh residents at Felda Residence Tanjung Leman, here on Sunday.

       Comm Kamarul Zaman added that police will increase their manpower if needed to better control and monitor the crowd on nomination day and throughout the 14-day campaigning period.

       “If the limit is 100 people in the operational room, make sure there are 100 people in there, and remember, the 100 people include the organisers and other committees, not just supporters.

       “The EC has also allowed house-to-house visits, so only visit the outside of the house, do not go inside the house,” he added.

       Polling day has been set for March 12, with nominations on Feb 26 and early voting on March 8.

       The EC has allowed ceramah, talks, physical campaigning and house-to-house visits throughout the 14-day campaign period of the Johor state election.

       However, ceramah and campaigns will only be allowed at party offices and official operations rooms, with participation limited to 100 people.

       Organisers will also need to obtain permits from the police for ceramah, talks and campaigns planned. These activities will be limited to two hours and cannot go on beyond 10pm.

       Ceramah, talks and campaigns in open or public premises, and any form of entertainment during the campaign period are not allowed.