BARISAN Nasional (BN) Melaka is keeping the door open for talks with parties interested in working together ahead of the upcoming state election, but any cooperation must be discussed through official channels.
Its chairman, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, said BN was prepared to listen to proposals, although any partnership would depend on several considerations, including the strengths and weaknesses of each party.
“If there is a willingness to work together, I am open to providing a space for discussions.
“But that does not mean discussions will automatically lead to a partnership. We will look at various factors before deciding who we can work with,” he told reporters after attending the Melaka state administration’s monthly assembly at the Melaka International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITC) today.
He was responding to speculation over possible cooperation between BN and other parties ahead of the Melaka polls.
Ab Rauf said BN would defend the 21 state seats it won in the last election, while seven other seats could be subject to negotiations, including possible seat swaps.
He said the coalition would not assume that all 21 seats belonged solely to Umno, adding that the decision would be based on the circumstances and strengths of each constituency.
“The 21 seats create many possibilities, while the other seven seats are open for discussion. There may be exchanges depending on the negotiations.
“We have to look at the strengths, weaknesses and advantages of each seat,” he said.
Ab Rauf added that BN would also assess whether a potential partnership could strengthen the chances of all parties involved.
He stressed that any discussions should not be concluded through public statements or social media, saying formal negotiations were needed before any decision could be made.
“I always say, this time if we are to get married, let it be done properly — with a solemniser and witnesses,” he said.
Ab Rauf said BN was ready for talks but added that no party had officially approached the coalition so far.
“I do not know which seats they want. That is why I do not want to negotiate through social media,” he said. – August 10, 2026
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