Kuala lumpur: Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh has been given full authority to negotiate cooperation with any political coalition ahead of the upcoming Melaka State Election. Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasized the importance of straightforward negotiations and expressed hope that the discussions would not become complicated. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the UMNO president, clarified that any decisions made during these discussions would be communicated to UMNO's top leadership before being submitted to the BN Supreme Council for final approval. The significance of these negotiations is underscored by the recent statement from Pakatan Harapan (PH) communications director Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, who welcomed BN's openness regarding seat distribution for the Melaka state election, viewing it as an opportunity worth exploring. Furthermore, Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar expressed wi llingness to engage in discussions with BN concerning the Melaka state polls. Previously, Ahmad Zahid affirmed the coalition's openness to negotiating seat allocations for the Melaka State Election, including the possibility of seat swaps, provided that these discussions are conducted with honesty and in good faith.