RAIN CHALLENGE FOR SABAH ELECTION CANDIDATES

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 28 (Bernama) -- Uncertain weather with heavy rain almost every evening throughout this week has somewhat affected the campaign activities of candidates for the 17th Sabah state election, especially in the interior areas with hilly roads, log roads and temporary bridges.

In the West Coast of Sabah, including Kota Kinabalu, Kota Belud, Papar, Penampang, Putatan, Ranau and Tuaran, the weather this morning experienced heavy rain, while the Tawau and Sandakan divisions had fair weather in the morning.

A Bernama survey throughout this week while following the candidates' campaign session found that several areas such as Pensiangan, Nabawan, Sook, Tulid, Tenom and Kimanis were facing problems with slippery roads, rising river levels and limited inland access, causing many campaign schedules to be changed at the last minute.

While following the campaign in Sook and Nabawan, the movement schedules of several candidates in the afternoon had to be changed due to wet gravel roads, forcing the campaign convoys to be postponed.

The weather conditions not only slowed down the campaign tempo, but also made it difficult for candidates to reach the District Voting Centre (PDM) which is located far inland and can only be accessed using four-wheel drive vehicles.

In highland areas such as Kundasang and Tambunan, heavy rain followed by thick fog not only reduced visibility, but also made the roads more slippery, making travel difficult at night.

A check on the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) website found that rain is expected to hit several places in Sabah tomorrow morning

Meanwhile, thunderstorms are forecast to hit most places in the interior in the afternoon, while rain is expected at several places at night.

A total of 1.76 million voters will vote in the 17th Sabah polls tomorrow, in 73 state constituencies.

For the latest news on the 17th Sabah state election, please visit https://prn.bernama.com/sabah/index.php

-- BERNAMA