Melaka’s Ab Rauf to steer BN–PH talks, Zahid says timing depends on dissolution

SERDANG, Aug 30 — Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi says formal negotiations with Pakatan Harapan (PH) on possible cooperation for the Melaka state election will begin only after the state assembly is dissolved.

He confirmed the matter but explained that the talks would be led by Melaka BN under Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, who has been tasked with negotiating and finalising any decisions, Berita Harian (BH) reported today.

The deputy prime minister, who is also Umno president, noted that only informal discussions between BN and PH have taken place so far.

He said Ab Rauf had already briefed the BN political bureau in Melaka, with details presented to the party’s supreme council for further study based on data compiled by its war room.

“We are handing this to Datuk Seri Ab Rauf, and I believe he will hold formal discussions once the Melaka assembly is dissolved,” Zahid told BH.

Separately, PH election director Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the coalition was waiting for Ab Rauf to indicate his readiness before negotiations could begin.

The PKR vice president, who is leading the talks, added that he had contacted Ab Rauf but was told to wait for a policy decision from BN and Umno’s central leadership.