Get ready – don’t wait for Melaka polls strategy, PH told

Amanah secretary-general Faiz Fadzil emphasized that Pakatan Harapan must bolster its Melaka election infrastructure, irrespective of whether it cooperates with Barisan Nasional (BN) or proceeds independently, according to a recent report. He stressed the importance of early preparations to prevent a recurrence of past setbacks in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, where PH's election apparatus was deemed a contributing factor to its losses.

Faiz also stated that the PH presidential council had not yet determined whether the coalition would form an alliance or contest the elections independently. He added that the PH leadership is actively working to enhance the election machinery. Addressing concerns regarding a potential coalition with BN and Perikatan Nasional (PN), Faiz noted that Amanah is prepared for any outcome, including contests involving BN and PN, should the coalition decide to pursue such a strategy.

The discourse surrounding the PH strategy for the Melaka elections has gained traction due to the evolving relationship dynamics between Umno and PAS. Umno's decision to invite top PAS leaders to its upcoming general assembly has sparked speculation about possible political collaboration ahead of the Melaka polls. BN had earlier indicated its intention to contest all 21 of its state assembly seats, and later signaled openness to discussions with various political parties.

In the Melaka state assembly, BN currently commands 21 out of the 28 seats, while PH holds five, and PN secures two. State assembly elections are mandated to take place by February at the latest, unless the assembly is dissolved earlier.