Amanah vs Umno in Merlimau: Rahayu knows Dr Akmal is big on social media, so she’s counting on voters at the grassroots

Merlimau candidates Barisan Nasional’s Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh (right) and Pakatan Harapan’s Rahayu Hamzah (left) pose for a picture after nominations closed on October 31, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Saturday, 31 Oct 2026 4:36 PM MYT

JASIN, Oct 31 — A father’s advice to always remain strong and broad-minded has inspired Melaka Amanah Wanita chief Rahayu Hamzah to take on the challenge of contesting the Merlimau state seat for Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the 16th Melaka state election.

She said the advice had become her guiding principle, particularly as she prepares to face Barisan Nasional (BN) incumbent Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh.

Acknowledging Dr Muhamad Akmal’s strong social media influence as Umno Youth chief, Rahayu said she remained confident of PH’s support among voters in the constituency.

“We recognise his social media influence, but we are prepared. I believe in the support of voters on the ground, and that is why I am ready to take on this challenge,” she told reporters here today.

Rahayu said that if elected, she would focus on serving the community in line with PH’s Melaka Rumah Kita aspirations, with education for young people among her priorities.

She also pledged to address local infrastructure concerns, including flooding, based on residents’ needs and complaints.

Meanwhile, Dr Muhamad Akmal said he was not targeting a large majority in Merlimau but instead sought voters’ confidence based on his service over the past four years and 11 months.

“If they feel my service has not been good, I honestly say they should not vote for me. But if they are satisfied with my performance, I ask for their trust once again,” he said.

Dr Muhamad Akmal said he was prepared to face criticism and allegations from his opponents during the campaign, adding that voters were capable of assessing the information presented to them.

He also urged all campaign teams to conduct their activities maturely and responsibly, and to refrain from provocation, slander and remarks intended to discredit others.

The Merlimau seat will see a straight fight between Dr Muhamad Akmal and Rahayu.

Polling day is set for November 14, while early voting will take place on November 10.

For the latest updates on the 16th Melaka state election, visit https://election.bernama.com/prn/melaka/2026/. — Bernama