THE Malacca elections saw a total of 22 Independent candidates contesting in 16 state constituencies.

Out of the total, 10 of them are using the book as their symbol, key (5), tree (3) and the remaining four have opted to use the rabbit, tractor, tie and pen symbols respectively.

The Independent candidates include Norhizam Hassan Baktee, who is defending the Pengkalan Batu seat. He is using the key symbol.

Also contesting as Independent candidates are Gan Tian Soh for the Duyong seat, who is using the rabbit symbol, Azmi Kamis for Bemban seat (tractor) and Mohd Akhir Ayob (book).

“I chose the book as my symbol because it is the best reference and those who read books are clever people,” said Akhir, who is contesting for the Asahan seat.

Two other Independent candidates are involved in the six-cornered fight for the Asahan state seat. They are Mohd Noor Salleh and Azmar Abdul Hamid, who are using the tree and key symbols, respectively.

The other three candidates contesting the seat are Fairul Nizam Roslan (BN), Danesh Basil (PN) and Idris Haron (PH).

According to the official portal of the Election Commission (EC), there are 28 symbols that candidates can choose from for their campaign and as their symbol on the ballot paper.

The symbols include elephant, prawn, hoe, boat and motorcycles.

After choosing the symbols and their choice confirmed by the returning officer during the nomination session, they candidates are not allowed to change the symbol.

However, if there is more than one independent candidate who wants the same symbol, the EC will hold a ballot to determine who has the right to use the symbol.

The Election Commission (EC) has set November 20 as polling day for the Malacca elections, while early voting is on Noveber 16.

Malacca, which has 28 state constituencies, has a total of 495,195 registered voters, comprising 48.57% men and 51.43% women. – Bernama, November 9, 2021.