MELAKA: Melaka Opposition leader Mohd Yadzil Yaakub expects talks soon between Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional leaders ahead of the upcoming state polls.
Mohd Yadzil stated Melaka Chief Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh and Parti Wawasan Negara president Hamzah Zainudin would hold discussions soon. He declined to reveal seat allocation details.
"I can't reveal the number of state seats expected to be contested by our side, but I am optimistic that Barisan and Perikatan will reach an electoral understanding," he said in an interview on Monday (Aug 3).
Mohd Yadzil cited Negri Sembilan state election results as evidence that voters supported coalition cooperation. He expressed hope that this cooperation would continue in Melaka and the 16th General Election.
"In my view, the Negri Sembilan state election carried a message far greater than merely a change of state government.
"It proved that when leaders are prepared to put aside political ego, show statesmanship and place the interests of the people, the voters will respond with confidence and support," he said.
On Sunday (Aug 2), Ab Rauf, who is also Melaka Barisan chairman, said the coalition remained open to working with any political party under a "Barisan Plus" formula for the upcoming state election.
Ab Rauf, who is also the Melaka Umno liaison committee chairman, said Barisan welcomed discussions with any political party interested in cooperating for the state polls, although any agreement would ultimately depend on the strengths of each party.
"Anyone is welcome to come and negotiate, but negotiations do not necessarily end with an agreement because everything depends on each party's respective strengths.
"So, we are not bound by any arrangement that has yet to be formally established as a final coalition, but I am open to everyone who wishes to negotiate with me," he said.
