Rauf: BN open to alliances for Melaka polls, but don’t negotiate on social media

Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh visits an exhibition booth during the national-level National Environment Day 2026 celebration opening ceremony in Melaka on September 21, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Monday, 21 Sep 2026 1:27 PM MYT

MELAKA, Sept 21 — Melaka Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh has advised parties interested in collaborating with the coalition in the upcoming state election not to negotiate such matters via social media.

He said doing so could create a negative public perception of the parties involved.

“I will answer briefly. There is no need for us to negotiate through social media. We will issue official letters to all parties, inviting them to submit proposals on how they could become BN’s best strategic partner. These proposals will then be presented at all levels for a decision,” he said.

Ab Rauf said BN respected all parties interested in working with the coalition, but stressed that any collaboration would ultimately be determined through formal discussions, which would be held later at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTC KL).

He told reporters this after officiating the 2026 National-level National Environment Day celebration here today.

Also present were Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup, his deputy Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh, and Melaka State Secretary Datuk Salhah Salleh.

Ab Rauf said BN remained open to negotiations with any party concerning the Melaka state election.

“We are neither closing the door completely nor opening it wide for negotiations,” he said.

In the last state election, BN, led by Ab Rauf, formed the state government after winning 21 of the 28 State Legislative Assembly seats. PH won five seats, while Perikatan Nasional (PN) secured two.

The term of the current Melaka State Legislative Assembly expires on Dec 30. — Bernama