PH’s strength lies in trust, tested partnerships

PAKATAN Harapan (PH) is banking on its political stability and access to Federal Government support to strengthen its appeal to voters ahead of Saturday’s 16th Melaka State Election.

PH secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the coalition’s established working relationship and shared commitment among its component parties would enable its candidates to serve constituents more effectively.

He said PH’s strength stemmed from trust and mutual respect, which had sustained its partnership despite political challenges and changes in the country’s political landscape.

“Our Harapan is a coalition where, when we work together, we are united because our friendship is based on trust and respect. That is what matters.

“Our candidates represent a coalition bloc called Harapan. What sets PH apart is that it is a tested coalition, and the key that binds us together is trust and respect. These are very important values in a political coalition,” he said.

Saifuddin, who is also PKR secretary-general and Home Affairs Minister, was speaking at the ‘Pesta Melaka Rumah Kita’ event in conjunction with the state election at Taman Perdana Melaka in Alor Gajah yesterday.

He cited PKR and DAP’s continued partnership throughout PH’s political journey, while Amanah joined the coalition after its formation following a split in PAS.

In contrast, he criticised PAS for its history of alliances with UMNO, Bersatu and PH, which he said had repeatedly ended in political disagreements.

“PAS was once allied with UMNO in 1974, but the alliance lasted only until 1977, just three years. PAS was once allied with us (PH), but later left. PAS was also once allied with Bersatu, but later left.

“PAS was once allied with UMNO under Muafakat Nasional, but they fell out. Now PAS has returned to UMNO. PAS is a party that cannot maintain friendships. Whenever it allies, there is bound to be a problem,” he said.

The Election Commission has set polling day for the 16th Melaka State Election this Saturday. -November 13, 2026