Opposition members and activists on a secret state list will be barred entry until the end of the state elections, said Sarawak chief minister Adenan Satem.

"As chief minister, I have to protect the interests of Sarawak from unsavoury elements, whether political or otherwise," he told reporters in Kuching today.

Asked if Opposition members would be denied entry during the election period, he said "Yes, except for some who will remain on the list after."

The decision ignores earlier calls by the opposition and several NGOs to lift the ban, which they described as unlawful. The legality of the ban may come under question as the state cabinet is only charged with daily administrative duties, and has no power in policy making following the dissolution of the state assembly yesterday.

Sarawak practices immigration autonomy under the 18-point agreement when Malaysia formed in 1963. Critics have charged that the ruling state BN government has abused the state's immigration rights to protect the party's own interests. Adenan has previously said that the state government only seeks to ban "religious extremists and racists."

"Travellers are welcome to come in after the election," Adenan, who is state BN chief, told reporters when announcing more of its candidates today.

At least 37 opposition lawmakers, activists and academicians have been banned so far, including including PKR vice-president Nurul Izzah, PKR secretary-general Rafizi Ramli and Amanah president Mohamad Sabu. Clare-Rewcastle Brown, editor of Sarawak Report , is also on the list.

Opposition lawmakers said travellers engaged in legitimate political activity are allowed in under Section 66 and 67 of the Immigration Act, and are considering taking legal action.

They said immigration restrictions have been worse under Adenan than his predecessor, Taib Mahmud, who served as chief minister for 33 years. The Election Commission is expected to announce the polling and nomination dates on Thursday.

Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), the largest component in the state BN, has finalised the list of all its 40 candidates, announcing its remaining nine candidates today, including three 'direct candidates'.

They are: Idris Buang for the Muara Tiang state seat; Awla Idris, (Simunjan); Mohd Chee Kadir (Kabong); Shafie Ahmad (Daro); Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya (Jemoreng) and Jefferson Jamit Unyat (Bukit Goram).

The direct candidates are: John Ilus for Bukit Semunja; Miro Simuh (Serembu) and Datuk Gerawat Gala (Mulu).