PH-Bersatu Cooperation Remains Uncertain Ahead of Melaka State Election

Speculation over a possible political cooperation between Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Bersatu ahead of the Melaka state election has intensified following a meeting involving leaders from both sides.

PH and Bersatu representatives attended a closed-door dinner in Melaka recently, prompting questions over whether the two sides could revive their political cooperation. However, Bersatu has described the gathering as an informal session rather than formal negotiations. 

PH-Bersatu Talks Fuel Speculation Ahead of Melaka Polls

DAP Melaka chairman Khoo Poay Tiong said while politicians should remain open to discussions, any cooperation must respect certain boundaries.

He said DAP Melaka was currently unable to accept working with Bersatu, which has remained a contentious partner for PH since the 2020 Sheraton Move that brought down the PH federal government.

Political analyst Fathi Aris Omar said parties ultimately needed to consider whether an alliance could help them secure votes, rather than focusing solely on past disagreements.

He pointed to the cooperation between PH and veteran leaders Mahathir Mohamad and Muhyiddin Yassin before the 2018 general election as an example of political differences being set aside for electoral purposes.

Meanwhile, Khoo said prospects for repairing relations between PH and Barisan Nasional appeared limited, citing past attacks by Umno against PH and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.