Rauf: Take Melaka election talks off social media

Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh has called for an end to political negotiations conducted through social media, urging instead more substantive discussions at the negotiating table. The Melaka BN chairman stated that all parties involved should be open to amicable negotiations to explore cooperation and establish a robust team to defend Melaka.

Rauf emphasized that the upcoming state polls would be conducted under the BN Plus framework, welcoming any party to engage in negotiations. He further stated that anyone could approach him or party chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to discuss matters, rather than relying on social media for communication. Rauf, representing Tanjung Bidara, affirmed that Melaka BN would defend its 21 parliamentary seats in the forthcoming election, with no decisions made on seat allocations at this point.

The coalition would evaluate and study the matter before expressing its stance, particularly if an arrangement would benefit both political parties. He also encouraged all parties, whether allied or not, to create space for negotiations and engage in discussions in a cordial manner. Rauf clarified that Melaka's political landscape cannot be judged solely by the outcome of parliamentary elections, as the BN has been striving to win public confidence and deliver the best services to the people.

He added that formal negotiations with the Pas have not taken place thus far, expressing the hope that political talks on social media would be postponed until discussions can be held effectively on the negotiating table.