Kuching: The Sarawak police are prepared to provide manpower and personnel to help maintain security during the upcoming Sabah state election. Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah stated that as the contingent closest to Sabah, the Sarawak Police are always on standby and ready to be deployed at any time if required.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Zainal mentioned that they are closely monitoring developments related to the state polls in Sabah and remain in a state of readiness. The Sarawak Police are committed to extending any necessary assistance to ensure the smooth running of the election process, including during the campaigning period and other related activities. He emphasized that since Sarawak is the contingent nearest to Sabah, most of the manpower support will naturally come from them.

Mohamad Zainal further elaborated that the exact number of personnel to be deployed has yet to be determined and will depend on the requirement and request from the Sabah contingent.

Earlier, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail announced that a total of 9,500 officers and personnel from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) would be deployed for the Sabah state election, which involves 73 state assembly seats. The deployment includes monitoring more than 3,500 polling channels and ensuring voter safety throughout the election period. Special logistical requirements, such as helicopters, are being considered for interior areas.

Mohd Khalid stated that the Sabah police have requested between 1,000 and 1,500 additional officers and personnel to be mobilized to the state during the election period.