Pakatan vows to scrap appointed seats in Melaka state assembly

MELAKA — Pakatan Harapan has committed to abolishing seven appointed seats in the Melaka state assembly, targeting what it views as an undemocratic provision in state legislation. The pledge forms part of the coalition's election manifesto ahead of the state polls, reflecting broader concerns about unelected representation in the chamber. Currently, the seven appointed positions allow the state government to nominate additional assemblymen outside the direct electoral process, reducing the proportion of democratically elected representatives. Pakatan argues that repealing this mechanism would strengthen democratic accountability and ensure all state assemblymen are answerable to voters. The commitment resonates with calls from civil society groups who have similarly criticised appointed legislative positions as contrary to democratic principles. If the coalition prevails in the election, repealing the relevant state legislation would require assembly approval, a procedural requirement that would need to be navigated following any change in government.