BN to skip Sarawak state polls under Umno-PBB understanding, says Zahid

Melaka Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Mohd Ali Rustam (centre) with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (left) and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ab Rauf Yusoh (right) after the ceremony presenting the instrument of appointment and the oath-taking, loyalty, and secrecy pledges for the Chief Minister of Melaka at the Seri Utama Hall of the Melaka Yang di-Pertua Negeri's Office November 15, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Sunday, 15 Nov 2026 7:00 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 15 — Barisan Nasional (BN) will not contest any seats in the 13th Sarawak state election, its chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said. 

The decision is in line with an understanding between Umno and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Ahmad Zahid, who is also Umno president, said. 

“BN has no intention of contesting any state seats in Sarawak, as this is the understanding between Umno and PBB in the state,” he told reporters at the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Deepavali open house here today.

Also present were PPP president Datuk Dr Loga Bala Mohan and MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan.

The Election Commission (EC) has set Dec 12 as polling day, with nomination scheduled for Nov 28 

On the possibility of Parliament being dissolved, Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, said the decision rested with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, saying that he (Anwar) has the right and mandate to do so.

On the political crisis in Negeri Sembilan, Ahmad Zahid said efforts would be made to resolve the situation as soon as possible.

He said the necessary steps would be taken to address the problems faced. 

“What matters is that the people’s problems in Negeri Sembilan are resolved and that the state administration runs smoothly and in accordance with the Negeri Sembilan Constitution,” he said. — Bernama