MELAKA, 25 October 2026 – Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on the coalition’s election machinery to strengthen internal unity and accelerate campaign preparations ahead of the Melaka state election scheduled for November 14.
Speaking at BN’s candidate announcement ceremony at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) on Saturday night, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts among party members to ensure the coalition is fully prepared for the electoral contest.
Zahid urged campaign teams to begin their groundwork immediately, stressing that cooperation, commitment and effective mobilisation would be essential throughout the election period.
BN Announces 21 Candidates, Including Eight New Faces
BN confirmed that it will contest 21 of the 28 seats in the Melaka State Legislative Assembly, introducing eight new candidates as part of its electoral line-up.
Melaka BN chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the decision to introduce new candidates followed an assessment of local constituency conditions and community needs.
He expressed confidence that the new line-up could help the coalition retain public support while continuing development initiatives undertaken during the previous administration.
The eight new candidates are:
- Lendu – Datuk Abdul Hakim Abdul Wahid
- Rembia – Norazril Abdul Aziz
- Gadek – S. Nadarajah
- Durian Tunggal – Datuk Dr Mustafa Musa
- Pengkalan Batu – Siti Aisyah Mahmood
- Ayer Molek – Datuk Mohd Ridhwan Mohd Ali
- Serkam – Datuk Azman Abdullah
- Sungai Rambai – Jezleel Pit
Candidate Selection Based on Local Needs
Ab Rauf explained that the selection process considered constituency requirements and the need to provide opportunities for new representatives.
He also clarified that the absence of certain incumbent representatives from the candidate list did not necessarily mean they had been removed, noting that some had chosen not to seek another term.
The coalition is seeking to maintain its position in the 21 constituencies it will contest, with its leadership urging every selected candidate to actively engage voters and strengthen local campaign operations.
Melaka State Election: Key Dates
The Melaka State Legislative Assembly was dissolved on September 23, paving the way for the upcoming election.
The Election Commission has confirmed the following electoral timetable:
- Nomination Day: 31 October 2026
- Early Voting: 10 November 2026
- Polling Day: 14 November 2026
With nomination day approaching, political parties are intensifying preparations as candidates prepare to present their plans and priorities to voters.
The coming weeks will place greater attention on constituency-level campaigning, candidate engagement and the policy commitments presented by competing political coalitions.
Source: Bernama | Rewritten By Minutesmy
