{
  "id": 17217013,
  "title": "Melaka polls: PH raises target to contest 24 seats, eyes 18 wins",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/30/melaka-polls-ph-raises-target-to-contest-24-seats-eyes-18-wins",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-30T11:26:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/10/1567132/melaka-polls-ph-raises-target-contest-24-seats-eyes-18-wins"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Pakatan Harapan (PH) is aiming to contest 24 state seats in the upcoming Melaka election on November 14, with the goal of winning 18 of them, according to Melaka PH chairman Adly Zahari. The decision to increase the number of contested seats from 21 to 24 was made after considering current political developments and the coalition's ability to field suitable candidates. Adly stated that the party also took into account the strength of its machinery, candidates' capabilities, and acceptance among local residents. Initially, PH had targeted 21 seats, but decided to contest 24 after assessing the situation and identifying suitable candidates. The PH chairman emphasized that the decision was not influenced by negotiations with Bersatu or any other party, and stressed that PH had control over its own position within the coalition. Adly also mentioned that the party's primary focus is to win 18 seats while retaining the five it already holds, including Kota Laksamana, Ayer Keroh, and Banda Hilir.",
  "summary": "AYER KEROH: Pakatan Harapan is targeting to win 18 of the 24 state seats it will contest in the Melaka election on Nov 14.",
  "key_points": [
    "Pakatan Harapan aims to contest 24 state seats in Melaka election.",
    "Party targets to win 18 seats out of 24 contested.",
    "Decision based on political developments and candidate capabilities."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}