Campaign materials belonging to Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Bukit Batu state seat, Arthur Chiong Sen Sern, were allegedly vandalised by unknown individuals at several locations across the constituency.
The incident was discovered at about 9am on Saturday after party members found damaged campaign items in Kampung Rahmat, Kampung Sri Paya and Taman Putri Hartamas. Election campaigns are expected to be conducted in a peaceful and respectful manner, making acts of vandalism a concern as polling draws closer.
Arthur claimed PH flags had been thrown into drains, while several campaign signboards in Kampung Sri Paya were torn apart. He added that billboards and flags installed in Taman Putri were also believed to have been deliberately sabotaged.
“We do not know who is responsible for the damage at this stage,” he said during a press conference at the N.51 Bukit Batu Main Operations Room in Taman Impiana on Sunday.
Following the incident, Arthur said a police report had been lodged at the Air Bemban Police Station to enable the authorities to investigate the matter and identify those involved. He expressed disappointment over what he described as acts of sabotage and mischief that tarnished the spirit of the election campaign.
Arthur, who is also the PKR Kulai Branch chief, stressed that the incident would not dampen the determination of his campaign team to continue engaging voters as they seek to retain the Bukit Batu state seat. He said the focus would remain on reaching the electorate despite the setback.
He also urged all political parties and supporters to uphold mature politics by conducting campaigns in a respectful and responsible manner, while avoiding provocation or acts of vandalism that could disrupt harmony throughout the election period. A healthy democratic process, he added, benefits both candidates and voters alike.
