Kuala lumpur: Any proposal to hold Malaysia's 16th General Election (GE16) concurrently with the Melaka and Johor state elections will hinge on the prevailing political situation and the consent of the Rulers and the Yang Dipertua Negeri, as stated by Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that while the administrative terms for Melaka and Johor are nearing their end, the authority to dissolve the state assemblies lies with the heads of state, based on the advice of the respective Menteri Besar and Chief Minister.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted the significance of obtaining the Rulers' and TYT's consent, following the advice of the Menteri Besar or Chief Minister, for dissolving the state assemblies. He pointed out the financial implications for the Election Commission (EC) in conducting such elections, citing high costs and the necessity to consider timing and suitability, even if elections are held simultaneously.

In an interview marking UMNO's 80th anniversary, Ahmad Zahid was questioned about the feasibility of holding GE16 alongside the state elections amidst a global supply crisis and government cost-saving measures. He assured that the UMNO and Barisan Nasional (BN) machinery remains prepared for elections at any moment but cautioned against complacency. He stressed the need for outreach to non-partisan individuals and others convinced by the party's agenda, to secure support beyond the party's core members.

The legislative terms for the Melaka State Legislative Assembly and Johor's assembly are scheduled to end on December 27 and April 21 next year, respectively. Legally, the EC has up to 60 days post-dissolution to conduct elections, setting a deadline for the Melaka state election by February 2027 and Johor's by June 2027, should automatic dissolution occur.