Barisan Nasional (BN) plans to engage in discussions with other political coalitions before deciding on forming an electoral pact for the upcoming Melaka state election, according to the state chief Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. The Melaka Legislative Assembly was officially dissolved as of Wednesday, marking the start of preparations for the election.

Ab Rauf emphasized that the coalition’s approach will be guided by considerations aimed at benefiting the people of Melaka and ensuring effective state governance. “The priority is not what benefits me, but how we can administer the state in the interests of the people,” he said during remarks on Tuesday.

He indicated that negotiations would take place with relevant parties to evaluate potential political cooperation strategies. However, no final decision has been reached on whether BN will contest the election independently or as part of a coalition. “I will announce the outcome once negotiations have concluded and a decision has been made,” Ab Rauf stated.

Regarding the candidacy of incumbent BN representatives, Ab Rauf declined to provide details, noting that the selection process would consider multiple factors and be announced at a later date. “I don’t want to answer that now; let’s wait. I can’t reveal that because we will take many factors into account,” he said.

The dissolution of the Melaka Legislative Assembly comes amid an environment of political realignment, prompting BN’s leadership to explore various options ahead of the election to secure a future administration that reflects the electorate’s interests. Ab Rauf reiterated that the coalition’s decisions would be driven by the welfare of Melaka’s residents rather than personal or partisan motives.