The Melaka state legislative assembly has been dissolved, effective September 23, paving the way for the state election.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh met Melaka Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam and sought his consent for the dissolution of the state assembly.
The Yang di-Pertua Negeri consented to the dissolution, which will take effect on September 23.
Ab Rauf said the decision to dissolve the assembly early was made as a precaution, particularly in anticipation of potential issues such as floods.
He said the date for the state election would be determined by the Election Commission (SPR).
Ab Rauf also assured Melaka residents that the dissolution would not affect the running of the state government, saying government affairs and services would continue as usual.
The announcement followed growing indications that the 28-seat state assembly would be dissolved, including the state executive council meeting being brought forward from its usual Wednesday schedule.
All 21 Barisan Nasional assemblymen had also been instructed to be at Seri Negeri at 2.30pm today, ahead of the Chief Minister's press conference.
The current state government's mandate was due to expire on December 27.