Melaka polls: BN-PN aim to spring surprise in Kesidang

MELAKA: Datuk Seri Dr Ab Rauf Yusoh is optimistic that the cooperation between Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) in the Melaka election could spring a surprise in Pakatan Harapan's stronghold of Kesidang.

The Melaka BN chairman said the consolidation of support among members and supporters of the two coalitions under the Muafakat Melaka spirit signalled a major shift in the country's political landscape.

"If we reclaim Kesidang under Muafakat Melaka, as I said earlier, it will mark a significant change.

"If we succeed in winning the Kesidang seat, it will send a strong signal that the political movement in Melaka will pave the way for a better journey towards Putrajaya," he told reporters after visiting the Kesidang seat operations room in Malim Jaya here today.

Also present was PN candidate for Kesidang Albert Kok, who is also Kota Melaka Wawasan division deputy chief.

Ab Rauf, who is also caretaker Melaka chief minister, added that he was satisfied with the campaign efforts of both coalitions' machinery after a week on the campaign trail, saying they had demonstrated their commitment to the Muafakat Melaka spirit.

"I can see that the campaign machinery at all levels, from both PN and BN, has been working together and demonstrating that this cooperation is solid. I am very satisfied.

"As I have said before, the people of Melaka are like those observing Ramadan. They eagerly await the moment to break their fast.

"Just wait until the time comes. When the Maghrib azan is sounded, we will see how they (the voters) cast their votes," he said.

Kok is involved in a three-cornered contest as BN and PN seek to wrest Kesidang from incumbent DAP assemblyman Allex Seah Shoo Chin and Bersama candidate Dr Bryan Kek Kit Hun.

In the 2021 state election, Seah won the seat with a majority of 10,237 votes after he polled 14,769.