KOTA KINABALU, Nov. 15 -- The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has identified about 15 hotspots requiring heightened security measures for the 17th Sabah State Election, with particular attention on several locations around Kota Kinabalu and the east coast.

Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the areas were flagged based on several factors, including political issues and the anticipated involvement of several non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

"This situation is not unique to Sabah; all states in the peninsula face similar circumstances as elections draw near.

"We will deploy personnel, including from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and, where necessary, assign the Light Strike Force (LSF) or Fede...