Malaysia's opposition leaders have been irked by a proposal from electoral authorities that requires candidates to sign a 'good behaviour' pledge not to whip up emotions or make false accusations against opponents while campaigning.
Under the proposal, to be tabled in parliament next month, all candidates must sign a document that will set out the new rules before they qualify.
Candidates who contravene the rules - which also include penalties for indecent behaviour - will be disqualified on the spot.
The commission also plans to set up special squads consisting of election officials and police travelling together in 'rapid response four-wheel-drive vehicles' with recording equipment to monitor electioneering in every constituency.
'We need to ensure candidates and their supporters are held accountable for their actions,' Election Commission secretary Wan Ahmad Wan Omar said.
'The special squad will take on-the-spot action when the rules are flouted.'
