Melaka PN chairman Dr Yadzil Yaakub hinted at the shift, saying Melaka is now considered a “Bersatu-led state”, similar to Johor and Selangor, where the party has more assemblymen.

“Just like in Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu (which are known to be PAS strongholds), where we have an allocation (system) to determine which party gets more seats,” he told FMT.

“We view Melaka, Johor and Selangor as Bersatu states. Therefore, Bersatu should play a more dominant role in seat distribution.”

Yadzil said the two parties have reached an understanding on seat distribution and will finalise the matter in a “cordial, family-like manner, ensuring each component party gets its appropriate share”.

At the Melaka state election in November 2021, PN contested all 28 seats, with Bersatu fielding candidates in 15, PAS in eight, and Gerakan in five. However, the coalition secured only two seats – Sungai Udang and Bemban – both won by Bersatu candidates.

Barisan Nasional won 21 seats, and Pakatan Harapan five.

The state assembly’s term will end in November 2026 and an election must be held within 60 days of its dissolution.

Despite PAS’s lacklustre performance in the 2021 state election, the party bounced back in the 15th general election, winning two of the six parliamentary seats – Jasin and Tangga Batu – while Bersatu captured the Masjid Tanah seat.

PH won in Alor Gajah, Hang Tuah Jaya and Kota Melaka, while BN had a poor showing, failing to win any parliamentary seat.