The doubled cost of the Sarawak state election is due to the rising price of goods, said Election Commission (EC) deputy chief Hashim Abdullah today.

Asked to comment on the matter, the incoming EC chairperson rationalised how the situation today is not the same as during the last state election.

“Many (price) of goods have increased, so the cost will rise.

“Don’t compare with the previous (state) election," Hashim told reporters today at the farewell ceremony of his predecessor, outgoing EC chief Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof.

Although areas in the upcoming state election might be more or less similar, Hisham argued that rent for vehicles including helicopters has increased.

“This includes food and drinks, too. These things have led to the increased cost (of the election),” he said.

Stressing that the upcoming election would be different than the one held five years ago, Hisham said the commission will come out with a "special statement" on the matter soon.

It was previously reported that the upcoming state election - which is likely to be held either in March or April – will cost RM181 million, more than double the cost of the last state election where RM78 million was spent.

Meanwhile, Hashim said preparations have been made in relation to the Sarawak election.

“So at any time the state is dissolved and a date is set, we will proceed,” he said.