PDRM Deploys 9,300 Officers to Secure Sabah Election Amid Hotspot Concerns

Sabah, El Sky News — The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) have identified several individuals considered likely to disrupt the upcoming Sabah State Election, according to Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail. Based on assessments from previous election cycles, authorities have also marked about 15 areas across the state as potential hotspots where tensions or provocation are more likely to occur.

To safeguard the voting process, PDRM is deploying approximately 9,200 to 9,300 officers throughout Sabah, supported by specialised units from the Criminal Investigation Department, Traffic Division, and other tactical teams. Additional forces such as the Light Strike Force and the Public Order Riot Unit will remain on standby to respond immediately should any incidents arise.

The identification of hotspots was based on factors including voter density, regional political activity, past incidents of unrest, and the presence of active non-governmental organisations. Security attention is expected to be concentrated around key urban centres and locations known for high campaign intensity.

The police chief also confirmed that no reports of phantom voters have been received, expressing confidence in the integrity of the electoral system. He urged political parties, supporters, and NGOs to avoid provocation or inflammatory rhetoric, stressing that maintaining public order is essential to ensuring a peaceful and credible state election.