PRN Melaka: BN postpones cooperation talks to next week

Barisan Nasional (BN) in Melaka has postponed its negotiations with political parties to establish strategic allies for the upcoming state election until the following week. This decision, made by BN Chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, was taken to find a more suitable date for the talks. Ab Rauf assured that the negotiations would be resolved in the near future, as the outcome would be processed through internal party channels before a final decision is made by the UMNO Supreme Council.

UMNO Secretary-General Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki had previously stated that invitations would be extended to any party interested in negotiating with Melaka BN. The delay comes after BN Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that two meetings would be held this week with different political groups to discuss electoral pacts for the state poll.

Ab Rauf emphasized that potential coalition partners will be evaluated based on whether the alliance would bring more benefits or drawbacks to the party. He also noted that every party retains the democratic right to accept or reject cooperation offers, and initial statements from coalition leaders do not set a precedent for the final decision, which will be made by the PH Presidential Council.