Melaka: Barisan Nasional (BN) is conducting a detailed study on the possibility of cooperating with any political coalition in the upcoming Melaka state election, said its chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He mentioned that any decision regarding this matter would be made by the Melaka BN leadership and finalized at the central level. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid stated, "Grassroots sentiment is mixed, so we are carrying out a detailed study.' He emphasized that the decision will be made by Melaka BN chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and will subsequently be finalized by the UMNO and BN leadership at the central level. This statement was made to reporters after he inaugurated the 2026 World Islamic Tourism and Trade Expo (WITEX) Ministers and CEOs Summit today. Previously, Ahmad Zahid had given Ab Rauf, who serves as the Melaka Chief Minister, the mandate to negotiate cooperation with any political coalition in preparation for the state election. This strategic move is aimed at str engthening BN's position in the forthcoming election. In the 2021 Melaka state election, BN achieved a significant victory by winning 21 of the 28 state seats. Meanwhile, Pakatan Harapan secured five seats, and Perikatan Nasional obtained two. As the political landscape evolves, BN aims to carefully consider its alliances to maintain its influence in the region.