Malaysia: Increased security ahead of general elections May 9 /update 2

Event

Around 10,000 additional security personnel have been deployed throughout Malaysia to bolster security in the run-up to the general elections scheduled on Wednesday, May 9, bringing the total number of police staff on duty during the polls to 68,000.

Road closures and diversions are possible throughout the day. 

Political gatherings are likely to take place and protests denouncing the election results are also possible after balloting, particularly if there are allegations of fraud, as has been the case in the past. Foreign nationals should note that all participation in political activities or protests is strictly forbidden by the law.

Context

The election date was intentionally chosen to come before Ramadan, a major festive period for the Muslim-majority country, which begins this year on May 15.

On May 9, candidates will vie for 222 national parliamentary seats and 505 state seats (only the eastern Borneo state of Sarawak, which conducted its state election in 2017, will not hold state elections). A simple majority of 112 parliamentary seats would deliver victory to Prime Minister Najib Razak, who is leading the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition against the challenge of former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. In the last general elections held in 2013, BN managed to win 133 out of the 222 seats.

Advice

Individuals present in Malaysia are advised to avoid public rallies, refrain from discussing domestic political issues, and anticipate a heightened security presence in urban areas.