THE Election Commission (EC) has declared itself prepared for the possibility of an early 16th General Election, including holding parliamentary polls concurrently with state elections in Melaka and Johor to reduce costs.
EC deputy chairman Azmi Sharom said the commission faced no difficulty in conducting an election at any time, subject to the dissolution of Parliament or the respective state legislative assemblies.
“If state and parliamentary elections are held simultaneously, of course, the cost will be lower because there is no need to conduct two separate elections, and it provides advantages in terms of economies of scale,” he told BH.
His remarks come amid mounting speculation that the 16th General Election, though more than a year remains in the current parliamentary term, could be called ahead of schedule.
Political observers and analysts have suggested that an early poll might be held in the fourth quarter of this year, between October and December, or even earlier, possibly by mid-year. Some have argued that April would present the most favourable window for dissolution.
Azmi declined to provide a detailed breakdown of potential savings from synchronising federal and state polls, citing numerous variables, including the number of states involved, the duration of the campaign period and logistical requirements.
“However, the savings obtained are expected to be significant,” he said.
Under Malaysia’s constitutional framework, general elections must be held within 60 days of Parliament being dissolved. The timing of any early poll ultimately rests with the Prime Minister, subject to royal assent for dissolution. - February 28, 2026
