The Health Ministry in Malaysia has called for upcoming elections in the country to be put on hold as it continues to battle with rising number of COVID-19 infection cases. 

Speaking at a recent press conference updating the public on the country’s effort to manage the pandemic, Health Director-General Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said there is concern that there could be another increase in COVID-19 cases if an election is held now, especially after the third wave just hit following the Sabah state election.

“We have learned this from Sabah and we hope we do not repeat similar consequences of the election in other states,” he said, adding that, while the ministry does not recommend elections at this time, “if we must have one, maybe we can look into different ways of carrying out the election, such as no cross-border or cross-district travel, no gatherings, and no house-to-house visits.” 

Concluding his statement, the minister also revealed that plans are currently in motion to discuss with the Election Commission (EC) of Malaysia on exploring the possibility of using postal votes if elections must hold. He also said that if any type of election needs to be held, a new stricter standard operating procedure (SOP) must be looked into and introduced. 

Upcoming Elections 

By-elections are scheduled in Batu Sapi for a December polling day. Triggered by the death of incumbent Datuk Seri Liew Vui Keong, nominations have also been set for November 23. 

The Sarawak state election must be held before August 2021 but there has been plenty of speculation that the state government might decide to call for polls sooner.

While the Election Commission of Malaysia had outlined standard operating procedures for campaigning, reports state that they had been disregarded, resulting in the recent spike in COVID-19 cases following the Sabah state elections.