PH does not claim to have all the answers, says Adam Adli

BUKIT BERUANG – Pakatan Harapan (PH) does not claim to have all the answers to the challenges facing the people, but remains committed to listening to voters' concerns, criticisms and ideas to bring meaningful change.

Melaka Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) chairman Adam Adli Abdul Halim said voters today were more discerning and no longer offered political parties unconditional support without first questioning their candidates, policies and ability to deliver progress.

He said voters wanted to understand what distinguished a candidate or political party from those who had contested previous elections, as they expected innovation, change and progress for themselves and future generations.

“Many Melakans have lived in the state for years, even decades, and witnessed different candidates and political parties competing in successive elections.

“Naturally, voters want the best for their state and do not want to be left behind as Melaka continues to develop.

“PH understands this reality and remains committed to bringing innovation, change and progress to everyone, but we also recognise that this cannot be achieved without the people's support,” he said during a PH talk in Bukit Beruang, Melaka, last night.

Adam, who is also Hang Tuah Jaya Member of Parliament (MP) and Deputy Higher Education Minister, said earning that support required the coalition to remain accountable and willing to listen, particularly to voters' views and expectations.

He said PKR and PH recognised the importance of accepting criticism, considering suggestions and engaging with the public on ideas, questions and proposed solutions.

“We are not a political party that claims to know everything or has all the answers to every problem.

“Instead, we remain committed to listening to the people and working together with them, as we believe meaningful change, innovation and progress can only be achieved through mutual understanding and cooperation,” he said.

He added that the coalition remained open to criticism and reminders about the responsibilities and commitments it needed to uphold.

Adam said PH had been engaging with voters through public talks, TikTok and Instagram live sessions, as well as Facebook posts during the Melaka election campaign to explain its position and seek support.

However, he stressed that these engagements were not merely platforms for the coalition to promote itself, but also opportunities for voters to question, scrutinise and criticise its candidates and policies before deciding whether to support them.

The Election Commission (EC) has set Nov 14 as polling day for the 16th Melaka state election, following the dissolution of the 28-seat State Legislative Assembly on Sept 23. Nomination day was held on Oct 31, while early voting is scheduled for Nov 10.

A total of 79 candidates are contesting the 28 state constituencies. A coalition needs at least 15 seats to secure a simple majority and form the state government, while 19 seats are required for a two-thirds majority.

In the previous state election in 2021, Barisan Nasional (BN) won 21 seats, followed by PH with five and Perikatan Nasional (PN) with two.