Top cop warns of stern action against those playing up sensitive issues at polls

The police will take stern action against political parties that touch on issues involving religion, royalty and race (3R) in the upcoming state elections.

Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain said that as such, political parties contesting the elections were reminded not to play up sensitive issues during their campaigns, especially on the 3R.

He said this was to avoid tension and fears that could disrupt harmony among the people.

"We have observed that each time the 3R are raised, there will be disunity and disharmony among the community. After all, I believe that all those who will be contesting are seasoned politicians.

"We want the state elections to run smoothly and peacefully so that voters can go out safely to cast their votes," he told reporters in George Town last night.

Razarudin said political parties were also reminded to comply with the rules and laws, especially those related to the Election Offences Act 1954 and the Sedition Act.

"We (the police) have our recording and zone officers who will be monitoring the election campaigns, and they will be at the talks, so if anyone is found to have touched on the 3R, investigations will be carried out either by Bukit Aman or the state contingent," he said.

In the meantime, he said 40,000 police personnel would be on duty during the six state polls.

He said the police also advised political parties involved in the polls to apply for ceramah permits as early as possible, for administrative purposes as well as to prevent a clash in venues between rival parties.

"We do approve permits for applications made as late as 24 hours prior, but we hope the applications can be done much earlier," he said.

The six states gearing up for elections are Kedah, Penang, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan and Terengganu.