PAS, UMNO to Negotiate Melaka Election Seats Soon

The Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) has confirmed that cooperation talks with the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), including the allocation of seats for the upcoming Melaka State Election, will commence shortly. PAS Secretary-General Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan stated that the discussions will also involve Perikatan Nasional (PN), although Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) is not participating in these specific negotiations at this time.

Takiyuddin explained that PAS has been authorized to negotiate with UMNO regarding seat distribution. He noted that these discussions have historically been conducted through direct meetings rather than formal correspondence, a method PAS intends to employ again for Melaka. The Kota Bharu Member of Parliament emphasized that the seat allocation in Melaka will not necessarily mirror the formula used in Negeri Sembilan, given the differing political landscapes of the two states.

Key factors influencing the negotiations include the results of the Melaka State Election in December 2021 and the 15th General Election (GE15) in 2022. In the 2021 Melaka polls, PAS did not win any seats under the PN banner, while PN secured two seats, both won by Bersatu. Notably, one seat won by UMNO in 2021 is now held by a representative who has joined PAS. This situation, predating the anti-party hopping law, presents a complex point for discussion: whether the seat should remain associated with UMNO or be considered a PAS seat.

Furthermore, parliamentary seat performance will be a basis for negotiation. In GE15, PAS won two of Melaka's six parliamentary seats, while Bersatu, PKR, DAP, and Amanah each won one. Takiyuddin indicated that these parliamentary results, despite PAS not holding any state seats in Melaka, will be a significant factor in the ongoing discussions, the outcomes of which have not yet been finalized.