Malaysia

If it's BN-PH, I won't contest the Melaka state election – Dr Akmal

Dr Akmal is willing to give up the opportunity to defend his seat as a representative in the Merlimau State Legislative Assembly (DUN) to ‘defend the principles’ he holds.

Updated 1 month ago · Published on 19 Aug 2026 10:25AM

If it's BN-PH, I won't contest the Melaka state election – Dr Akmal
“God willing, we will win Melaka like Johor and Negeri Sembilan,” he said. - August 19, 2026

UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh said he would not contest the Melaka State Election (PRN) if Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) form a pact.

Dr Akmal is willing to give up the opportunity to defend his seat as a representative in the Merlimau State Legislative Assembly (DUN) to ‘defend the principles’ he holds.

“I reiterated my stance during the KS (Keluar Sekejap) podcast, which is that if BN-PH is in Melaka, I will not contest because I am more willing to defend my principles than position.

“God willing, we will win Melaka like Johor and Negeri Sembilan,” he said.

He said this when commenting on the latest development regarding the possibility of PH and BN opening discussions on cooperation to face the Melaka PRN.

Earlier, PH Secretary-General, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that the matter is likely to be discussed since the Melaka PRN is getting closer.

Dr Akmal also questioned PH’s stance, which was previously alleged to consider UMNO as being faceless and stabbing friends, but now the party is seen looking for UMNO to form a collaboration. – August 19, 2026

Related News

Malaysia / 1d

BN-PAS cooperation faces tougher test when power is at stake

Malaysia / 1w

BN planning for a ‘walkover’ in the coming Melaka election?

Malaysia / 1w

PAS’ “Malay-Muslim unity” slogan ahead of Melaka polls draws jibes on social media

Malaysia / 1w

Melaka assembly to be dissolved tomorrow, announces CM

Malaysia / 1w

Melaka assembly set to be dissolved today; state polls next?

Malaysia / 2w

No discussions yet on PH-Bersatu cooperation for Melaka polls - Fahmi

Spotlight

Diary

Penang reaffirms commitment to preserve heritage sites across the state

By Ian McIntyre

Opinion

AI: A Godsend for those with dyslexia in education and careers

Malaysia

Malaysia prepares for aged nation status by 2036

Malaysia

Mentally disabled suspect remanded for 7 days over fatal hammer attack in Marang

Malaysia

Masidi urges Putrajaya to address Sabah doctor shortage in upcoming Budget 2027

Malaysia

Police rearrest motivational speaker as second woman files harassment report in Perlis

Malaysia

Anwar vows zero compromise on school safety after alleged murder of teen Irene Sofiya

Malaysia

Classmates arrested as police probe fatal assault of 16-year-old Irene Sofiya

Malaysia

Loneliness, social media drive elderly pensions into hands of cyber scammers

Malaysia

Another desperate attempt by Nadzaruddin and former Undangs

You may be interested

Malaysia

Anwar vows zero compromise on school safety after alleged murder of teen Irene Sofiya

Malaysia

Police rearrest motivational speaker as second woman files harassment report in Perlis

Malaysia

Minister urges social media users to respect privacy surrounding Tun Dr Mahathir

Malaysia

Master AI or risk being mastered by it, Anwar warns Malaysian youth

Malaysia

Dinner invitation turns to nightmare as woman beaten and raped in Cheras house

Malaysia

Police investigate motivational speaker over alleged child sexual harassment in Perlis

Malaysia

Budget 2027 expected to dominate Dewan Rakyat proceedings

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

Ongoing talks could see Formula One return to Sepang International Circuit, says PM