Melaka:Pakatan Harapan (PH) has dismissed claims that the 16th Melaka State Election is a waste of time and public funds, describing it instead as an important democratic process that allows the people to determine the mandate for the state government.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Melaka PH chairman Adly Zahari stated that the coalition is seeking the support of all Melakans, rather than relying solely on its own party members, to secure a mandate to govern the state. Adly emphasized that while other political parties might win by relying on their own supporters, PH believes its victory depends on the trust and support of the wider electorate.

Adly, who is also the PH candidate for the Bukit Katil state seat and an Amanah vice-president, underscored that governing power is not a permanent right of any party and that voters do not owe their mandate to anyone. He stressed that democratic power ultimately belongs to the people of Melaka. Adly made these remarks at a daily press conference at the PH main operations room, attended by Melaka DAP chairman Khoo Poay Tiong.

Meanwhile, Adly, also serving as Deputy Defence Minister, mentioned that initial feedback from PH's 24 candidates during their campaign activities indicated that residents are concerned about issues such as water bills, homeownership difficulties, access to welfare assistance, and recurring floods. Additionally, small-scale traders are facing challenges involving capital and rental costs.

Adly urged Barisan Nasional (BN), which won 21 of the 28 seats in the previous state election, to address these concerns and explain the measures taken, rather than behaving as though it had only recently assumed control of the state administration. He questioned the praise for the current administration if basic matters remain unresolved and continue to be a source of public complaints.

The Election Commission has set November 14 as polling day for the 16th Melaka State Election, with early voting scheduled for November 10.