Zahid: Umno grassroots feedback needed before deciding on electoral pact for Melaka

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has stated that the party is currently assessing the sentiment of its grassroots members and supporters before deciding on any potential political alliances for the upcoming Melaka state election. Speaking at the World Islamic Tourism & Trade Expo 2026, Zahid emphasized the importance of considering the views of the party's members, stating that the current sentiment is mixed and that they should not enter a situation that could be hostile or unfavorable.

The Umno leader was responding to questions about grassroots opinions concerning cooperation between the Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalitions for the Melaka polls. Earlier in the week, PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang expressed confidence that an agreement could be reached between BN and PN ahead of the elections. He claimed that most of BN's grassroots support was in favor of cooperating with PN.

Although official negotiations between BN and PN have not yet commenced, Hadi mentioned that representatives from both coalitions have been involved in discussions. Initially, Zahid had indicated that Umno-led BN would maintain its alliance with PN following their win in the Negeri Sembilan state election on August 1st. However, the BN party now insists on defending the 21 seats it won in the 2021 Melaka polls and has opened itself up to discussions with any coalition.

Lastly, Zahid confirmed that Umno will send representatives to the 72nd PAS annual muktamar following an invitation from the party. PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan announced that the party had extended invitations to Zahid and three other Umno leaders to attend the Sept 4 muktamar in Kelantan.