MELAKA, Aug 24 — Perikatan Nasional (PN) and Barisan Nasional (BN) have entered negotiations to forge a cooperation pact for the upcoming Melaka state election (PRN).

PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang disclosed that talks between representatives appointed by the central leadership of both coalitions kicked off three days ago, Sinar Harian reported.

While acknowledging that discussions are in their infancy, Abdul Hadi noted that the initial momentum has been promising.

“Preparations at the party level have already begun and are ongoing. These discussions will continue to the next stage,” he said during a fundraiser dinner last night.

When questioned on the likelihood of a formal alliance, Abdul Hadi remained cautious but optimistic.

“That is still at an early stage, but even now, it has shown very good progress. The progress of the discussions has been very positive. We are taking inspiration from what was successfully achieved in Johor and Negeri Sembilan,” he added.

Regarding the timing of the polls, Abdul Hadi acknowledged that the date remains unknown, though the groundwork for cooperation is already being laid.

The confirmation follows similar sentiments from PN Chief Whip Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan on Saturday, who said that the two sides are closing in on a mutual understanding.

According to Takiyuddin, while initial feedback from BN has been positive, the finer details of the cooperation, specifically the division of state seats, are yet to be finalised.

Also in attendance at the dinner were PN chairman and PAS vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, and Melaka PAS commissioner Zulkifli Ismail.