Melaka BN open to talks with any coalition, says Zahid

Melaka's Barisan Nasional (BN) is prepared for talks with any coalition prior to the state election, according to BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Zahid has granted Melaka BN chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh the authority to engage in negotiations with any coalition. The Umno president acknowledged seat allocation as one of the most difficult aspects in political discussions, but expressed confidence that proper conversations could resolve any issues.

Zahid emphasized that any decisions reached through these discussions would be communicated to the BN's top leadership and the BN Supreme Council for finalizing. Although BN secured 18 seats in the recent Negeri Sembilan election, PAS-led Perikatan Nasional gained seven, resulting in a two-thirds majority in the state assembly. Despite BN's intention to defend all 21 seats it won in the last state election, PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang insists that preliminary talks are still underway.

Wawasan member Hamzah Zainudin urged both coalitions to adopt a give-and-take approach in seat negotiations. Political talks are not a guarantee of partnership, according to Rauf, who stated that various factors, such as each party's strengths, weaknesses, and advantages, would be assessed during the negotiations. The Melaka chief minister emphasized that he was open to formal negotiations with any party, rather than informal exchanges on social media.

He stated that the talks should not necessarily result in BN and other parties becoming partners, as the final decision would be left to voters to assess. The current term of the Melaka state assembly ends in December, and an election must be held within 60 days of dissolution, or by late February at the latest.