Melaka's 16th state election sees 79 candidates vying for 28 assembly seats amid voter concerns over economic security and heritage safeguards. Although the state recorded over 11.2 million visitors in the first eight months of 2026, many local workers continue to experience persistent financial strain. Trishaw operators, for instance, report that ride fares have remained frozen at RM25 for ten years despite mounting refurbishment and living costs. Consequently, voters are demanding that the next administration review controversial municipal traffic schemes and provide meaningful livelihood support.
Key points
Trishaw operators continue to struggle financially due to decade-old RM25 fares paired wi…: Trishaw operators continue to struggle financially due to decade-old RM25 fares paired with escalating refurbishment costs.
Diverse heritage communities including the Baba-Nyonya and Portuguese-Eurasians are seeki…: Diverse heritage communities including the Baba-Nyonya and Portuguese-Eurasians are seeking stronger recognition and cultural preservation.
Voters are calling on the future state administration to reform local traffic regulations…: Voters are calling on the future state administration to reform local traffic regulations and balance tourism growth with worker livelihoods.
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CNA speaks to those from Melaka’s diverse heritage communities ahead of the Nov 14 state election, finding a shared desire for greater recognition, economic security and cultural preservation.
MELAKA: As rain falls over Melaka's historic city centre, Afrin Mohd Diron shelters beside his colourful Minions-themed trishaw, waiting for the weather to clear so he can offer rides around the city's historic attractions.
For the 28-year-old father of two, who has worked as a trishaw rider since 2016, every customer matters.
He spends around eight hours a day taking visitors around Melaka, sometimes working into the night during busy periods. But with fares staying at RM25 (US$6.13) for a 15-minute ride for the past decade, Afrin says rising living costs have made it harder to earn a living.
"Back then, RM25 could buy you many things. Now, you can't buy as much," he said.
MELAKA HEADS TO THE POLLS
Located about 150km south of Kuala Lumpur, Melaka is known for its historic streets, colourful trishaws and multicultural heritage.
The state will hold its 16th state election on Saturday (Nov 14), with…
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