PH withdrawal from state govt was unexpected, says Rauf

Melaka's Chief Minister, Ab Rauf Yusoh, expressed surprise at the Pakatan Harapan (PH) withdrawal from the state government, which occurred after nearly three years of collaboration. Rauf, who had previously given PH representatives the chance to participate in the administration when he first became chief minister in March 2023, said that all government policies were formulated without any political bias.

However, he acknowledged that PH's decision to resign from the state Cabinet was unexpected. Despite their departure, Rauf affirmed that his administration could continue to serve the people effectively. Five Melaka PH assemblymen left the state administration on July 16, following a constitutional amendment that allowed for the appointment of up to seven unelected assemblymen.

Seah resigned as the executive councillor for entrepreneur development, cooperatives, and consumer affairs, while Kerk stepped down as deputy speaker. Low and Leng also resigned as deputy executive councillors.

When asked about his achievements as chief minister, Rauf emphasized that they should not be measured by the scale of projects but by their effectiveness in addressing residents' concerns. He explained that the state government identified problems through complaints collected by the state's constituency development and coordination committee.

These issues were then verified by village heads and district offices before actions were taken by the relevant assemblymen and executive councillors. Rauf highlighted that the administration had resolved concerns such as unpaved village roads, insufficient street lighting, and provided medical supplies for bedridden patients. He stated that the greatest satisfaction came from helping those in need.