MELAKA, Oct 31 (Bernama) -- All candidates and party machinery contesting in the 16th Melaka State Election have been reminded to adopt a healthy approach to campaigning.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said that although differences in opinion and political criticism were inevitable during the election period, societal harmony should not be sacrificed.
Teo, who is also DAP Wanita chief, said differences in political ideologies should not divide the people, as everyone shared the same identity as Malaysians.
"I hope all candidates and their respective supporters can campaign in a healthy and constructive manner. We know that during elections, criticism and sometimes even a little disagreement are inevitable.
"But most importantly, we must understand that before becoming candidates, we are all Malaysians. So, let us ensure that our campaigns are healthy and constructive so that we can build a healthier and more harmonious country and state of Melaka," she said.
She was speaking to reporters after being present at the nomination centre at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Padang Temu here today to show her support for and accompany Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Bandar Hilir seat, Leng Chau Yen.
The Bandar Hilir seat will see a three-cornered contest involving Leng, Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Jasmine Lok and Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) candidate Dr Mohd Nor Rashidi Ab Jalil.
Meanwhile, Leng expressed gratitude that the nomination process went smoothly this morning, while saying that her team was ready to hit the ground and engage with voters.
"The process here went smoothly without any problems, and we are fully prepared to campaign. I hope everyone will be able to campaign in a healthy, prosperous and peaceful manner," she said.
The Election Commission (EC) has set Nov 14 as polling day for the Melaka state election, while early voting will be held on Nov 10.
For the latest news on the 16th Melaka State Election, visit https://election.bernama.com/prn/melaka/2026/.
-- BERNAMA