PN likely to demand equal share of seats in Melaka polls, says analyst

An analyst predicts the Perikatan Nasional (BN)-led coalition could demand at least half of the 28 Melaka state seats in the upcoming polls. Syaza Shukri of the International Islamic University Malaysia cited the coalition's victory in three parliamentary constituencies during the 2022 general election as the basis for their demand.

Despite BN's failure to win any parliamentary seats in the state during the 2022 election, they garnered a significant 20 out of the 28 state seats. Syaza noted that while PN has shown strength since the last Melaka election, it would not want to be treated as a junior partner. PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang hinted that the BN-PN cooperation could differ from their alliance in Negeri Sembilan, but he left the matter open to local developments.

Melaka BN chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh said the coalition is open to working with any party under a BN-Plus formula, but the outcome of talks remains uncertain. Tawfik Yaakub, a Universiti Malaya professor, argued that winning a parliamentary seat does not guarantee a state-seat entitlement. He emphasized that various factors such as voter turnout, candidate suitability, and local realities should be considered when determining seat allocation.

BN's hold on the Melaka administration, extensive network of incumbents, and recent wins in other states could strengthen their bargaining position. However, the negotiators may face challenges, as they need to balance BN's parliamentary gains with BN's stronghold on state seats. If an agreement is not reached, BN might consider partnering with Pakatan Harapan, which has a strong presence in Melaka.