MIPP to sit out Melaka polls after failed PN talks

The Malaysian Indian People’s Party (MIPP) will refrain from participating in the upcoming Melaka state election, following their unsuccessful negotiations with the Perikatan Nasional (PN) leadership. MIPP president P Punithan emphasized the importance of acknowledging and representing the concerns of the Indian community in politics.

He stated that the party would not compromise its principles, even if it meant not fielding candidates in the November 14 polls. Punithan highlighted that defending the dignity and principles of the Indian community was of utmost importance to MIPP, and that securing irrelevant seats was not a priority. The party firmly believes that teamwork, mutual respect, and inclusiveness are crucial for any political coalition, and that trust and respect for every component party's interests are essential.

MIPP previously contested five seats in Johor's election, losing all five and their deposits. Meanwhile, the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition announced their intention to contest 21 of Melaka's 28 state seats, while PAS and its allies would aim for the remaining seven. The exact seat distribution between BN and PN remains to be finalized, although PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan confirmed ongoing cooperation between the parties.

Nomination for the Melaka election is scheduled for Saturday, with early voting on November 10 and polling on November 14. In the 2021 state election, BN secured 21 of the 28 seats, while Pakatan Harapan won five and PN claimed two.