MELAKA: Melaka Barisan Nasional has deferred its upcoming negotiations with political parties to determine potential strategic partners for the state election to next week.
Melaka Barisan chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh (pic) stated that the postponement aims to secure a more suitable date, with discussions expected to wrap up shortly. Any outcomes will be routed through official party channels for detailed review before a final decision is rendered by the Umno Supreme Council (MKT), reported Sinar Harian.
"The talks have not been cancelled, merely rescheduled to a more appropriate date," Ab Rauf clarified following an Umno Melaka Liaison Body meeting on state election preparations at Seri Bendahara on Wednesday (Sept 29). "Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki has already issued an official statement indicating that any party will be invited to negotiate with Melaka Barisan."
The announcement follows statements made last Saturday by Barisan chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who confirmed that Barisan headquarters had scheduled two separate meetings with distinct political groups to explore strategic alliances.
Ab Rauf emphasized that Barisan’s decision-making process will center on whether a partnership yields more benefit than harm to the party.
"I am not directing focus toward any specific coalition as a strategic partner; it will ultimately depend on in-depth evaluations and studies. The final call rests with the Umno Supreme Council," he added.
Addressing recent comments by Parti Amanah Negara Communications Director Khalid Samad—who stated Pakatan Harapan would reject Barisan's offer of cooperation—Ab Rauf maintained that Barisan respects every party's position.
"That is their right. We maintain an open stance to celebrate democracy in Malaysia as promised," Ab Rauf noted. "If we invite them and they choose not to attend, that is fine. If they accept, we negotiate."
He noted that initial remarks from individual leaders do not serve as a benchmark for Barisan, as formal decisions require approval from the Pakatan Presidential Council.
"If the Pakatan presidential council decides against it, we accept that. We don't want to force ourselves on anyone," he said. "We are simply extending invitations without prejudice and will see whether discussions can proceed once official invitations go out."
