Melaka State Election: BN-PN Cooperation Will Not Affect Non-Malay Support – Ahmad Zahid

MELAKA TENGAH: Barisan Nasional (BN) believes its cooperation with Perikatan Nasional (PN) could translate into stronger support in the Melaka State Election, including among non-Malay voters.

BN Chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the cooperation demonstrated good compatibility between parties that had previously held differing political positions.

“And I hope it is not merely about uniting the minds and support of two parties that have been at odds for more than five decades.

“We have tried this in Negeri Sembilan, and this is the second time in Melaka. We hope, God willing, that we can translate this cooperation into support in the best possible way,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters after the Deputy Prime Minister’s Meeting with the Melaka Village Development and Security Committees (JPKK) here on Thursday.

Commenting on support from Chinese voters, Ahmad Zahid said BN hoped to secure increased backing from the community, taking into account the challenges currently faced by business operators.

According to him, feedback from businesspeople and corporate figures indicated that they were facing difficulties conducting business under the current economic conditions.

In this regard, he expressed hope that Chinese voters would place their trust in BN and the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.

“We hope to gain greater support from Chinese voters because we know they are currently facing considerable difficulties in running their businesses.

“If they place their trust in us, we will do our best to make it easier for them to conduct business and manage their daily affairs more effectively,” he said.

The Election Commission (EC) has set November 14 as polling day for the 16th Melaka State Election.

BN is fielding candidates in 23 seats, while PN is contesting five seats in the Melaka State Election.

Astro AWANI