Melaka: Melaka UMNO liaison committee chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh does not rule out the possibility of retaining the line-up of young Barisan Nasional (BN) leaders selected in the last state election for the next polls. The Melaka Chief Minister said the move was based on the performance and strong commitment shown by all current elected representatives throughout their service, as well as their unity in the spirit of comradeship and teamwork. According to BERNAMA News Agency, most of the new generation selected in the last term are below 50 years old and are still capable of continuing to provide the best service. Ab Rauf shared these insights with reporters after attending a ceremony to celebrate retired firefighters held in conjunction with the World Firefighters Day at the Masjid Tanah parliamentary level. Commenting on the selection of candidates for the next state election, Ab Rauf mentioned that it was still too early to finalize the list of individuals to be retained or otherwise. He emphasiz ed that the decision on who stays and who goes has not yet been made, and advised patience until the right time for an announcement. Meanwhile, addressing the possibility of Melaka holding its state election simultaneously with Johor, Ab Rauf noted that the political situation in each state required careful consideration. He highlighted that the situations in Johor and Melaka differ, and that Melaka will seek the best approach for its own political standing. The term of the 15th Melaka State Legislative Assembly is set to end in December, paving the way for the state election.