PARTI Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) has ruled out forging alliances with established political parties ahead of the Melaka state election, saying it wants to build its support directly among ordinary Malaysians rather than work with the existing political elite.
Bersama co-founder Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the party had made clear from the outset that it intended to contest the election independently, despite acknowledging that going it alone would not be easy.
He said the decision would allow Bersama to remain faithful to its principles and develop a more sustainable political base without having to compromise with established coalitions.
“From the outset, Bersama has made clear its intention to go solo. Although it will not be easy, this allows Bersama not to compromise on its principles and to build a more sustainable strength.
“We believe in building Bersama's strength with ordinary people, not the existing political elite,” he told BH.
Bersama has previously confirmed that it will contest 15 seats in the Melaka state election, putting the relatively new party on an independent electoral footing as established political forces prepare for the polls.
Among the candidates announced is Dr Muhammad Solehin Saleh, 40, the brother of Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who will contest the Bemban state seat in the Jasin parliamentary constituency.
Other candidates include Datuk Ruzayhiman Jenal in Kuala Linggi, Muhamed Arman Akil Abdul Talib in Rembia, B Lavern in Gadek, B Prasanth Kumar in Machap Jaya and Mohd Ridzuan Abdul Rahman in Sungai Udang.
The party is also fielding Abdul Rashid Abu Bakar in Paya Rumput, Young Jie Yu in Klebang, Goh Han Koon in Pengkalan Batu, Muhammad Muhaimin Lau Abdullah in Ayer Keroh, Dr Aliza Che Amran in Bukit Katil and Dr Bryan Kek Kit Hun in Kesidang.
Ethan Lim Zhi Hao will contest Kota Laksamana, Muhammad Hazwan Mustafa will contest Telok Mas, while Muhamad Shaffie Md Yasan will contest Serkam.
Bersama's decision to go it alone signals its determination to establish itself independently of the country's established political blocs, with the party positioning itself as an alternative built around grassroots support rather than alliances with political elites. - August 24, 2026
