BN-PN cooperation in Negeri Sembilan to shape future political alignment ahead of Melaka polls and GE16
JEMPOL: The level of cooperation between Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) in the upcoming Negeri Sembilan State Election will be closely monitored as a key indicator in determining the future direction of relations between the two coalitions ahead of the Melaka state election and the 16th General Election (GE16).
BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said any decision on expanding cooperation between the two coalitions would only be made after evaluating the effectiveness and outcome of the understanding reached in Negeri Sembilan.
He said the political landscape remains fluid and requires careful assessment before any new political alignment is established.
“We will look at the performance in Negeri Sembilan because politics is very dynamic.
“After that, we will determine the necessary political arrangements for the Melaka state election and other states, including when facing GE16,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid said this after attending the Gerakan Massa Masyarakat Desa (Gema@KKDW) Negeri Sembilan programme at Felda Palong 8, Jempol.
He explained that the BN-PN understanding in Negeri Sembilan was formed to prevent overlapping competition between the two coalitions in areas where both parties have influence.
According to him, the approach was also shaped by lessons from previous political developments and the changing geopolitical situation, particularly in Johor.
“We appreciate the leadership of the parties within PN for understanding the geopolitical situation in Negeri Sembilan.
“Hopefully, this will become a new political arrangement in Negeri Sembilan after polling day. We also hope that not only the machinery but voters from both sides will translate their support for this understanding,” he said.
The BN chairman said the coalition would continue presenting its administrative track record in states under its governance as part of its appeal to Negeri Sembilan voters.
He highlighted economic performance as one of the key areas, noting that Negeri Sembilan recorded 4.6 per cent gross domestic product (GDP) growth, which remains below the national growth rate of 5.2 per cent.
Ahmad Zahid compared this with states such as Johor, which recorded stronger economic growth under BN-led administration.
“We are offering hope and confidence to the people of Negeri Sembilan that what has happened in Johor and Pahang can also be achieved in Negeri Sembilan if BN is given the mandate to govern the state,” he said.
The cooperation between BN and PN in Negeri Sembilan is being viewed as a significant political development, as both coalitions assess possible strategies and alliances ahead of future elections.
The outcome of the state election could provide an indication of whether similar cooperation can be extended to other political contests, including the upcoming Melaka election and GE16.
