BN conducting detailed study before deciding on Melaka election cooperation, says Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 23 — The Barisan Nasional (BN) leadership is conducting an in-depth analysis to determine if they should collaborate with any political coalition ahead of the upcoming Melaka state election, according to its chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The final decision is expected to be made by the Melaka BN leadership and subsequently approved at the central level, said Zahid after opening the 2026 World Islamic Tourism and Trade Expo (WITEX) Ministers and CEOs Summit.

He disclosed that public opinion in Melaka is divided, which prompted the BN to carry out a comprehensive study. Zahid instructed Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, who is also the Melaka BN chairman, to engage in negotiations with any political coalition in anticipation of the state election. In the 2021 Melaka state election, the BN secured 21 out of 28 seats, while Pakatan Harapan won five seats and Perikatan Nasional two.