Friends, foes and four awkward clashes: Who’s teaming up with whom in the Melaka polls?

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 31 — In a surprising turn of events, both Umno and PAS are teaming up to contest the Melaka state election, while PH and Bersatu are considering an electoral understanding despite facing off in four constituencies. This unusual political setup has paved the way for a race filled with shifting alliances, tense relationships, and unresolved election deals.

Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) are aiming to replicate their successful alliance in Negeri Sembilan, where they achieved a two-thirds majority in August. As they continue to negotiate seat-sharing in Melaka, MCA has secured a fourth constituency following further talks between the two coalitions. Meanwhile, PH is attempting to find common ground with Bersatu, even as the latter's ties with its PN partners, especially PAS, continue to deteriorate.

With nominations happening today ahead of the November 14 polls, here's how the alliances are shaping up and what they could mean for Melaka.