Kota Laksamana and Bandar Hilir: MCA takes on DAP’s home turf

Melaka, October 31 — MCA intends to contest two additional state assembly seats, Kota Laksamana and Bandar Hilir, in the 16th Melaka state election, a move that presents a significant challenge for the party to secure the people's mandate, particularly from the Chinese community. MCA's president, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, highlighted the importance of these seats as they are predominantly populated by Chinese voters, with the DAP having dominated them for several terms.

Wee, who also serves as the Ayer Hitam MP and a former transport minister, recognized the challenge of conquering these DAP strongholds, but expressed the party's determination to secure the mandate in these areas. Wee emphasized that the Melaka state election serves as a referendum to assess the public support for the Pakatan Harapan government, which has been governing the country for nearly four years.

He stressed that the party will leverage the opportunity by mobilizing its efforts and machinery to gain voter support. Wee also expressed gratitude for the trust and support shown by the Barisan Nasional (BN) leadership and Perikatan Nasional (PN) leaders, who deemed MCA suitable to contest and potentially win in these areas. The MCA president is confident in the leadership of Lim Ban Hong, the BN candidate for the Kelebang state constituency, who is set to retain the seat based on his exemplary service record and strong rapport with the local community.

The Election Commission has scheduled the Melaka state election for November 14, with the nomination of candidates taking place today and early voting commencing on November 10. For the most recent updates on the 16th Melaka state election, visit https://election.bernama.com/prn/melaka/2026/.