‘Dinner, but no deal yet’: Fahmi says nothing formal between Pakatan and Bersatu for now

Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said any decision on cooperation with Bersatu for the Melaka state election would have to be made by Pakatan Harapan’s presidential council. — Picture by Yusof Isa

By R. Loheswar

First Published: Wednesday, 30 Sep 2026 4:26 PM MYT

Last Modified: Wednesday, 30 Sep 2026 4:28 PM MYT

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 30 — Pakatan Harapan has yet to begin formal discussions with Bersatu over possible cooperation for the Melaka state election, despite a closed-door meeting between representatives of both sides earlier this week.

PH communications director Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said any decision on political cooperation would have to be made by the coalition's presidential council, adding that he had not received any information on formal negotiations with Bersatu.

“So far, there have been no developments (on the cooperation). I have yet to receive any information on the matter,” he told reporters yesterday.

His comments came after PH and Bersatu leaders attended a closed-door dinner in Melaka on Monday night, fuelling speculation that the two sides could be exploring an electoral arrangement ahead of the state election.

However, acting Melaka PKR chairman Adam Adli Abdul Halim described the gathering as an opportunity to maintain cordial ties, while Bersatu information chief Datuk Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz said it was an informal session to get to know one another and exchange views.

PH has also indicated that it is open to discussions with other parties, with Adam saying the coalition was still waiting for PAS to extend an invitation for talks.

“PAS is the only one that has not invited us yet and I am waiting too,” he was reported as saying.

The developments come as political parties consider their respective electoral arrangements before the Election Commission meets on October 7 to determine key dates for the 16th Melaka state election.

The EC said the special meeting will decide, among other matters, the writ of election, nomination day, polling day and the electoral roll to be used.