AYER KEROH: The strict restrictions in the Melaka state polls is 'traumatising' the Barisan Nasional grassroot machinery from campaigning during this period, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

       The Barisan Nasional election director urged the Election Commission (EC) and other relevant authorities to find ways to ease restrictions that prohibited movements during the campaign period, and at the same time curb the Covid-19 infections.

       "We receive reports from our machinery that they are not allowed to hang the flags, and this and that.

       "They also cannot set up operation rooms at district polling centres.

       "That is where they conduct meetings and give their feedback to our command centre.

       "I hope they can re-think the restrictions and not be too overzealous with some officers taking our machinery's identification numbers.

       "Our machinery, especially the women, are traumatised by this," he told a press conference after launching Barisan's five year manifesto for the Melaka state polls Wednesday (Nov 10).

       "That is why we cannot see a lot of Barisan flags around.

       "They are scared to go out. This is a sad case," added Mohamad.

       The EC had announced that ceramah (talks), public speeches, and physical campaigns were not allowed during the Melaka state election.

       House-to-house visits, walkabouts, and the distribution of pamphlets to members of the public face-to-face, were also not allowed.