Kuala Lumpur:Barisan Nasional (BN) will finalize the form of political cooperation and the logo to be used for the Melaka state election after completing discussions with relevant party leaders this week, according to its chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid, who is also the UMNO president, has had preliminary discussions with the Melaka UMNO Liaison Committee chairman to consider various options before presenting the proposals to the party's top leadership. He stated that discussions with several parties will take place this week to decide on the coalition or party to collaborate with for the election. The decisions made will be respected, including the choice of logo or symbol.

The results of these discussions will be presented to UMNO's top leadership and the BN Supreme Council to finalize the political cooperation for the Melaka state election. Ahmad Zahid made these remarks during a press conference after opening the 18th annual general assembly of Parti Makkal Sakti Malaysia at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur. Also in attendance was party president Datuk Seri R.S. Thanenthiran.

Ahmad Zahid was responding to a statement by PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan regarding the possibility of Perikatan Nasional (PN) using the PAS logo in the state election if no agreement could be reached.

In Melaka, state BN chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh mentioned that negotiations with various parties to identify strategic partners for the state election would start tomorrow at WTCKL. The outcomes of these meetings will be submitted to the Political Bureau and decided at the Supreme Council meeting, where they will evaluate strengths, weaknesses, and other factors beneficial to the party.

The Melaka State Legislative Assembly was dissolved effective September 23, paving the way for the 16th state election. The Election Commission is expected to announce the dates for nomination, early voting, and polling on October 7.