Melaka BN courted as “maiden” ahead of state polls, says Ab Rauf

MELAKA, 20 AUGUST 2026 —

Melaka Barisan Nasional (BN) is reportedly being courted by both Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) as the state election approaches, according to Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, the coalition’s chairman and the state’s chief minister.

The comments were made on 20 August 2026, after Ab Rauf attended a defamation suit hearing against Bersatu deputy information chief Datuk Seri Mohamad Ali Mohamad.

The background to the situation is that BN won 21 seats in the 2021 Melaka state election, a result that has become the benchmark for any future coalition talks. Ab Rauf said BN would carefully consider all possible alliances before deciding on its political direction for the upcoming polls. He stated that potential cooperation could involve PH, PN or any other party willing to engage in discussions.

“We are like a beautiful maiden, so naturally we have many suitors,” he told reporters outside the High Court in Ayer Keroh. He added that any negotiations would be conducted at UMNO headquarters rather than in the historic city of Melaka.

Current developments indicate that no formal talks have yet taken place with any party, including over the proposed “Barisan Plus” formula. Ab Rauf emphasised that BN remains open to discussions with any party, provided both sides are willing to explore common ground. “It does not matter whether it is PKR, PAS or any other party. We are open to discussions with anyone prepared to engage with us,” he said.

He also stressed that any negotiation must begin with BN retaining the 21 seats it won in 2021, even if there are changes involving other seats. “Even if several seats are exchanged, the total must remain the same,” he added.

The potential impact on the Malaysian market is uncertain at this stage. However, the political realignment in Melaka could influence investor sentiment in the state, particularly in sectors that are sensitive to policy continuity, such as real estate, tourism and local manufacturing. The outcome of the coalition negotiations may also affect the allocation of state resources and the implementation of development projects that have been earmarked by the current administration.

From a sector and company perspective, the article does not provide specific details on how particular businesses or industries will be affected by the impending alliance talks. The focus remains on the political manoeuvring rather than on economic or corporate implications.

Looking ahead, Ab Rauf said it is too early to discuss the matter of UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh’s declaration that he would not contest the state election if BN cooperated with PH. He reiterated that no decision has been made and that the coalition’s electoral partners have not yet been determined.

The next steps will involve formal discussions at UMNO headquarters, with the outcome to be announced to the public once negotiations are concluded. The situation remains fluid, and stakeholders will need to monitor developments closely as the state election draws nearer.

Related: High Court · Ab Rauf Yusoh · Melaka