State polls: Voter turnout between 34% and 42% as of noon, says EC

PETALING JAYA: The Election Commission has reported a voter turnout of between 34% and 42% for the six states as of noon. Terengganu leads the pack with the highest voter turnout at 42%, followed closely by Kedah at 41% and Penang at 38%. Negri Sembilan comes in at 35%, followed by Selangor at 36% and Kelantan at 34%.

Meanwhile, the by-election in Kuala Terengganu has seen a voter turnout of 39% as of noon.

Early voting began smoothly in the morning with voters flocking to polling stations across the six states. The Election Commission is expecting a higher voter turnout in the afternoon as more people finish their work and make their way to the polling stations.

The by-election in Kuala Terengganu has attracted considerable attention with both major political parties campaigning rigorously. The election is seen as an important indicator of the popularity of the ruling coalition ahead of the general election.

As of now, there have been no reports of any major incidents or irregularities at the polling stations. The Election Commission has assured voters that they are taking all necessary precautions to ensure a fair and peaceful election process.

Despite concerns over the Covid-19 pandemic, voters have turned up in significant numbers, indicating their determination to exercise their democratic right. Polling stations have been equipped with hand sanitizers and temperature checks, and voters and election personnel are required to wear masks at all times.

The Election Commission has also implemented strict social distancing measures to prevent overcrowding at the polling stations. Voters are reminded to maintain a safe distance from each other and to follow all the guidelines provided by the authorities.

The voting process will continue until 5pm, after which the ballot boxes will be sealed and transported to the counting centers. The results of the by-election are expected to be announced later tonight.