AYER KEROH: Barisan Nasional’s landslide victory in the Melaka state election is a meaningful one as it clearly shows that the people want political stability, says Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

       The resounding victory, he said, showed that Barisan – which comprises Umno, MCA and MIC – was now the public’s preferred coalition.

       “This clearly shows a change in public attitude and their return to Barisan,” he said in a speech at Barisan’s operations centre here last night.

       He expressed gratitude to Umno deputy president and Barisan election director Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan as well as the voters and people of Melaka.

       “The trust given to Barisan will be reciprocated by our assemblymen, who will give the best service to all constituents,” he said.

       Ahmad Zahid also thanked Election Commission officers for ensuring a smooth election process.

       He added that Barisan would introduce anti-party hopping legislation to prevent elected assemblymen from defecting to other parties.

       “We will propose cooperation with assemblymen to ensure the state government remains for at least four years.”

       In addition, he said, Barisan would introduce several transformations to the Melaka state assembly to ensure that elected representatives played a more effective role in policy-making.

       “I’m confident that with this, we will be able to ensure political stability in the new political landscape,” said Ahmad Zahid, who returned from Germany several days ago after receiving medical treatment for back and neck pains.