‘Could barely sleep’: Couple who have voted in eight state elections arrive early for ninth Melaka polls

The 16th Melaka State Election is expected to conclude with its first result announced by 9:30pm tonight, according to EC chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun. The official results for all 28 State Legislative Assembly seats are anticipated to be released before midnight. Speaking to reporters after visiting a polling station, Ramlan commented on the voter turnout, which stood at 31.07 per cent as of 11:25am.

The EC chairman expressed confidence that the minimum target of a 70 per cent voter turnout could be achieved. He urged the public to vote early, as rain is forecasted for the afternoon.

Ramlan also highlighted that over 7,000 registered voters with disabilities had already cast their ballots. In terms of gender-based turnout, female voters are currently leading male voters based on real-time data from the EC's OCR-VA system. Regarding election-related offences, 301 minor incidents have been reported as of last night, most involving the installation of campaign materials.

Ramlan expressed disappointment in this figure and urged for further reduction in future elections. He also thanked members of the public who reported election offences, mentioning that the EC has taken action on the complaints received.

With 675,166 voters eligible to cast their ballots today, the Election Commission aims to deliver the full tally before midnight.