KOTA KINABALU: Malaysians are happy that they could turn their attention from the political arena to the football field after learning that the country will go to the polls on Nov 19, just before the World Cup kicks off in Qatar.

Football fans say they are thankful that the Election Commission (EC) has set a polling date that will not interrupt their viewing of the world’s biggest sporting event scheduled for Nov 20 to Dec 18.

“This is good so we can have politics all over with before we start watching the games,” said Batholomew Jingulam, president of United Malaysia, the country’s official Manchester United fan club.

“While non-footie fans will not think much of this, it’s important for us because we don’t like to mix politics with football,” he quipped.

Former Sabah football senior team head coach Jelius Ating concurred, saying that having the elections all wrapped up before the greatest show on earth starts will give people a peace of mind.

“Some people would like to put the elections at the back of their minds so they can fully concentrate on supporting their football teams.

“And it also makes a difference to people who need to travel to vote.

“For instance, someone who lives in Kota Kinabalu might need to go to Sipitang (in southwestern Sabah) to vote, so the one-day interval makes all the difference,” he added.

Malaysian football legend Datuk James Wong said it doesn’t matter if campaigning or polling day is held during the World Cup.

“But for most footballers or fans, they will look forward to watching the World Cup (without disruption),” he said.

Andy Raja, who heads the official Sabah Liverpool supporters’ club called Kinabalu Reds, is looking forward to supporting his favourite team England in the tournament.

“I’m not sure of England’s chances this time around but what I know is that the election period will not disturb the biggest sporting event.

“There’s ample time for people to focus on politics and football. I’m very happy with the date,” he said.

The EC has set a 14-day campaigning period, with nominations set for Nov 5.