MELAKA: Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh has fuelled speculation that he may contest a different seat in the upcoming Melaka election after posting a cryptic message thanking voters in Merlimau.
The speculation comes amid talk that the Merlimau seat, which he won in the 2021 state election, could be allocated to Pas under a possible electoral cooperation arrangement.
In a Facebook post yesterday, Dr Akmal hinted at the possibility of contesting in Serkam or Sungai Rambai, while inviting suggestions from the public.
"Thank you, Merlimau. Where to next? What about Serkam or Sungai Rambai, or does anyone have other suggestions?" he wrote.
The post drew mixed reactions from social media users, including Arau MP Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim, who offered to help Dr Akmal. Others suggested he consider contesting a parliamentary seat.
Jasin Umno division vice-chief Datuk Khaidhirah Abu Zahar played down the speculation, suggesting Dr Akmal might have been joking.
"I read his post too. Why, Akmal? Why are you doing this to your friends?" she said when met.
Meanwhile, Pas Melaka information chief Ahmad Bill Rahudin dismissed speculation that Merlimau would be allocated to the party, saying seat negotiations were still ongoing.
In the 2021 Melaka election, Dr Akmal won Merlimau with 5,633 votes, defeating Pakatan Harapan's Azrin Ab Majid, who secured 2,385 votes, and Perikatan Nasional's Abd Alim Shapie, who received 1,622 votes.
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