COMMENT | State polls: Security force and their votes

COMMENT | Particular groups in Malaysian society have political influence - from private religious teachers to civil servants.

In previous elections, I analysed the pivotal role of civil servants. With 1.7 million civil servants (and their families) they number as much as 15 percent of the electorate.

What makes their influence even greater is that they are often concentrated in particular constituencies, such as around Permaisuri in Setiu, Terengganu - where many are stationed.

Additionally, civil servants have a social standing in the community, often influencing others...