BN’s kingmaker status remains doubtful in Melaka, say analysts

Analysts suggest that Barisan Nasional's potential role as a "kingmaker" in the upcoming Melaka state election is uncertain. BN Chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi hinted that the coalition would evaluate the political situation in Melaka before deciding on any potential cooperation. However, this decision indicates that BN may not be confident about contesting the election on its own.

According to Global Asia Consulting's Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri, if BN genuinely believed it could win, it would not seek cooperation from other parties. His comments suggest that BN is currently evaluating its own strength, as a genuine kingmaker would typically be sought out by other parties for their potential support.

Syaza Shukri of the International Islamic University Malaysia also believes that BN's act of negotiating for a partner shows its uncertainty about its own strength. The 2021 and 2022 elections in Melaka reflect this uncertainty, with BN securing 21 of the 28 state seats but failing to win any of the six parliamentary seats. In comparison, Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) each won three seats.

Syaza pointed out that PN has an advantage over BN in Melaka due to its ability to draw Malay voter support. This could potentially hurt BN's chances in the upcoming election. Syaza also noted that cooperation between BN and PN is more likely than BN and PH, given PH's comparatively weaker bargaining position. However, she cautioned that BN should avoid being overconfident and failing to reach an agreement with any party.

If no party is willing to cooperate, Syaza warned that BN might face a three-cornered fight that could ultimately not be favorable to them.