BN Plus vs PH Plus: Melaka’s New Political Formula

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 2, 2026 – As the Melaka state election (PRN Ke-16) approaches, both Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) are racing to expand their coalitions through new formulas – BN Plus and PH Plus – in a bid to strengthen their positions.

BN’s approach, confirmed by its chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, involves negotiations with external parties under the BN Plus banner. Meetings have been planned with two political groups, led by BN Melaka chief Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and UMNO secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki. Although some sessions did not proceed as scheduled, BN insists discussions are ongoing. A key principle for BN is defending the 21 seats won in PRN 2021, making seat allocation one of the most sensitive issues in any alliance.

BN Plus

PH, meanwhile, is pursuing its own PH Plus formula. Adly Zahari, PH Melaka chairman, confirmed talks with parties sharing similar aspirations, including BERSATU. Within PH, seat distribution among PKR, Amanah and DAP has already been settled, allowing the coalition to focus on external negotiations. A recent dinner involving PH, BERSATU and PUTRA leaders sparked speculation of new alignments, though PH communications director Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil clarified it was not an official negotiation.

The essence of both BN Plus and PH Plus lies in broadening political reach. BN seeks to consolidate its dominant position by adding allies without sacrificing its existing strongholds, while PH aims to complement its multi-ethnic base with Malay-focused partners like BERSATU. Both strategies reflect lessons from past elections: alliances can shift outcomes in multi-cornered contests where vote splits decide seats.

With time running short before nomination and polling, the contest between BN Plus and PH Plus is less about numbers alone, and more about crafting a political formula acceptable to diverse partners and voters.

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