Melaka BN open to talks with any coalition, says Zahid

BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi expressed openness to negotiations with any coalition in the lead-up to the Melaka state election. At an event in Gerik, Perak, Zahid stated that he had empowered Melaka BN chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh to engage in discussions with any coalition. According to Zahid, seat allocation is one of the most difficult aspects of political negotiations, but he remains confident that proper discussions can lead to a resolution.

He emphasized that if discussions are conducted appropriately, there are no issues that cannot be resolved. Zahid hinted that the BN's stance in the upcoming election remains unchanged, as they intend to defend all 21 seats they won in the previous state election. However, PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang indicated that preliminary talks are still ongoing.

PN component Wawasan president Hamzah Zainudin advocated for a give-and-take approach in seat talks. Although political negotiations between BN and other parties do not automatically imply partnership, both coalitions will consider various factors, such as each party's strengths, weaknesses, and advantages, as well as the most effective strategy to help coalition partners secure the seats they contest.

The chief minister emphasized that negotiations would not necessarily result in BN becoming partners. He also noted that voters would ultimately decide whether to engage in such talks, as BN has not made any decisions regarding the moral aspect of the negotiations. The Melaka state assembly's current term ends in December, and an election must be held within 60 days of dissolution, or by late February at the latest.