MELAKA, October 12 2026,Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders in Melaka have filed a lawsuit against the state government to challenge a constitutional amendment allowing the appointment of up to seven state assemblymen without an election.
Melaka DAP chairman Khoo Poay Tiong said the originating summons was filed on Oct 8, naming himself and Melaka PH chairman Adly Zahari as plaintiffs.
Khoo, who is also Kota Melaka MP, said the legal action seeks a High Court ruling on the validity of the Melaka State Constitution (Amendment) Enactment 2026, which was passed on July 14 and gazetted on Aug 27.
The plaintiffs argue that the amendment conflicts with the fundamental structure of the Melaka State Constitution and the Federal Constitution, and should therefore be declared unconstitutional and invalid.
Khoo said the challenge was filed after the amendment was gazetted and published on the state’s official website, dismissing suggestions that the move was linked to the upcoming state election.
He also raised concerns over democratic representation, as the amendment empowers the Chief Minister to select up to seven appointed assemblymen and remove their eligibility.
PH had previously withdrawn from the Melaka state government following the amendment’s approval. However, the coalition is now pursuing legal action to challenge its constitutionality.
-AWANI
