While acknowledging that the matter was up to the respective state governments, he said holding the elections at the same time would save costs and realign the terms of the federal and state governments, Berita Harian reported.

He added that this used to be the norm until 2021 and 2022, referring to Melaka and Johor, which held their state polls in November 2021 and March 2022, respectively.

“(Holding the elections concurrently) can save costs and align the terms. To me, state governments under Pakatan Harapan (PH) should discuss with the federal government about holding their state polls with GE16,” he was quoted as saying.

The 15th general election (GE15) was held on Nov 19, 2022, but Penang, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah delayed their respective state elections for fear of floods at the end of the year. These six state polls were eventually held on Aug 12, 2023.

Only the Perlis, Perak and Pahang state assembly elections were held concurrently with GE15.

Data previously released by the Election Commission showed that the government had spent RM725 million to hold GE15 while the separate six state elections cost a further RM420 million.

Loke said he has yet to discuss his proposal with the other PH components, but believed it would also be in the coalition’s interests to call for concurrent elections.

The transport minister added that DAP is prepared if GE16 were to be called before the end of the current parliamentary term in December 2027.