KUALA LUMPUR – Melaka is officially headed for a snap election after Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh announced that the state legislative assembly will be dissolved tomorrow, September 23.
Ab Rauf confirmed that Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Mohd Ali Rustam has granted his royal assent for the dissolution, bringing a decisive end to weeks of intense political speculation.
“His Excellency the Governor has consented to the dissolution of the Melaka Legislative Assembly effective tomorrow, Sept 23, 2026,” he said during a special press conference earlier.
The proclamation officially hands the mandate back to the Election Commission (EC) to hold the 16th Melaka state election within the mandatory 60-day window.
The dissolution follows weeks of heightened political speculation over the timeline for the state polls. Barisan Nasional currently holds a strong presence in the 28-seat assembly after winning a two-thirds supermajority during the previous state polls.
With the assembly dissolved, the caretaker state administration will remain in place until elections are concluded and a new government is sworn in.
He also gave his assurance that the caretaker administration would continue delivering essential public services to Melaka residents until a new state government is formed.
“Throughout this (caretaker) period, our priority will be to ensure that the state administration remains organised, public services remain uninterrupted and the public’s wellbeing is taken care of.
“All state departments, agencies and local authorities will continue carrying out their respective duties professionally and lawfully,” he stressed.
The 15th Melaka State Legislative Assembly was originally scheduled to expire naturally in December, unless dissolved earlier. Under the state constitution, a fresh election must be held within 60 days of dissolution.
Addressing the timing of the decision, Ab Rauf explained that dissolving the assembly early was a strategic move to avoid potential year-end monsoon flooding.
Reflecting on his administration’s track record, Ab Rauf highlighted various community welfare achievements during his tenure, citing state-backed initiatives that repaired dilapidated homes, built free housing for the needy, and provided direct financial aid to sick and vulnerable residents. – September 22, 2026