MELAKA, Nov 1 — Pakatan Harapan (PH) is taking an open approach and leaving it to its members and supporters to decide whom to support in state seats not contested by the coalition in the 16th Melaka state election.

Melaka PH chairman Adly Zahari said the coalition had never issued any specific directive instructing its members and supporters to support any particular party in those constituencies, expressing confidence that they understood the political dynamics of the current state election.

He said PH’s current focus was on securing victory in the 24 state seats contested by the coalition.

“So, for our supporters in constituencies where PH is not contesting, whom they support is the right of our members. We understand how they should cast their votes in the coming election,” he told reporters at the 2026 national-level Malaysia Sihat Sejahtera Month in Ayer Keroh here today.

Asked about Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia’s (Bersatu) decision to contest eight state seats, Adly said the party had its own plans for the Melaka state election.

“I think Bersatu has its own plans, as it is contesting eight seats. We are focused on PH, and we understand that our main rivals are Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional,” he said.

The Election Commission (EC) has set Nov 14 as polling day for the 16th Melaka state election, with early voting scheduled for Nov 10. — Bernama