JASIN, October 23, 2026 — Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh is expected to retain his position as Melaka Chief Minister if Barisan Nasional (BN) and its strategic partners win the upcoming state election, BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.
Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, said the decision reflected confidence in Ab Rauf’s leadership record and his capabilities, including his previous experience as UMNO executive secretary.
“Insya-Allah, with Datuk Rauf, what you ‘order’ is exactly what Melaka will get,” he said when launching BN’s election machinery for the Jasin parliamentary constituency on Friday night.
The Election Commission has set Nov 14 as polling day for the Melaka state election, with candidate nominations scheduled for Oct 31 and early voting on Nov 10.
In the 2021 state election, BN won 21 of the 28 seats contested, securing enough seats to form the state government. Pakatan Harapan (PH) won five seats, while Perikatan Nasional (PN) secured two.
The upcoming election will determine whether BN can retain its position in Melaka and continue its administration under Ab Rauf’s leadership.
-Bernama
