KUALA LUMPUR — As campaigning for the 16th Melaka state election enters its second week, rival parties are seeking to win over voters with promises of economic growth, political stability and reform, while new alliances face the test of whether their supporters will vote across party lines.

Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) are banking on their joint electoral machinery, Pakatan Harapan (PH) is challenging the incumbent administration’s record, and smaller parties are seeking to distinguish themselves through reform pledges and alternative campaign strategies.

A total of 79 candidates are contesting 28 state seats in the November 14 election, with early voting scheduled for November 10.

PH is contesting 24 seats, followed by BN with 23, Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) with 16, Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) with seven, PN with five and Parti Pribumi Perkasa Malaysia (Putra) with one. Three candidates are running as independents.

Here is how the main parties are making their case, the issues shaping the campaign and the key contests to watch as polling day approaches.

BN-PN: Promising continuity and growth

BN and PN are presenting a united front through their Muafakat Melaka arrangement, with caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh leading their campaign pitch on development and economic growth.

Their joint manifesto promises to attract RM30 billion in investments, provide free domestic water for households consuming less than 20 cubic metres a month and freeze quit rent increases for five years.