Barisan Nasional needs a formula suited to Melaka’s geopolitical landscape for the coming state election, said BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said the formula does not necessarily have to follow the same model used in the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections, where the coalition secured major victories.
Negotiations must weigh benefits and drawbacks
Zahid said any negotiations must take into account both the benefits and potential drawbacks.
“We must make sure the benefits gained far outweigh any potential drawbacks. Any negotiations with any party or coalition must look at these aspects.
“We must be honest, sincere and honour the promises we make, not do the opposite after an agreement has been reached,” he told reporters.
He said he had given Melaka BN chief Ab Rauf Yusoh the mandate to hold negotiations with other parties.
The outcome of the negotiations will then be brought to the national level for closer examination and finalisation.
Cooperation also linked to national stability
Zahid said political cooperation at the state level should also be viewed in the context of efforts to strengthen political stability at the national level.
He said cooperation between parties at the national level was not expressed only through Cabinet meetings, but was also strengthened through coordination between ministries and a whole-of-government approach.
Such efforts, he said, were aimed at ensuring that national interests and political stability are maintained.
Melaka government term ends on Dec 31
The term of the current Melaka government expires on Dec 31, unless the state assembly is dissolved earlier.
A state election must be held within 60 days of the dissolution.
BN formed the Melaka state government in 2022 after winning 21 of the 28 seats. Pakatan Harapan won five seats, while Perikatan Nasional secured two.
The state executive council also includes PH assemblymen, reflecting the composition of the federal unity coalition.
