Chief Minister's position secure despite potential Bersatu expulsion, says Abu Bakar
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Abu Bakar Hamzah believes his position as Chief Minister will remain secure even if expelled from the Malaysian United Indigenous Party (Bersatu).
- He stated he would accept any decision made by party President Muhyiddin Yassin regarding his resignation from the party's Supreme Council.
- Abu Bakar resigned from the Supreme Council to focus on his duties as Chief Minister, with about a year left in his term.
Perlis Chief Minister Abu Bakar Hamzah remains confident that his position will be unaffected should he be expelled from the Malaysian United Indigenous Party (Bersatu). This follows his recent decision to step down from the party's Supreme Council. Abu Bakar, who still holds the position of state Bersatu chairman, stated he would accept any decision made by party President Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin regarding his political future.
He cited precedents in Kedah, where elected representatives who were dismissed from their parties retained their positions, such as Deputy Speaker and Exco member. Abu Bakar expressed his willingness to accept any action or decision from Muhyiddin, including potential expulsion, with an open heart. He made these remarks after signing a memorandum of understanding for a racetrack construction project.
Earlier, Muhyiddin had asserted that Bersatu remained strong despite resignations from its top leadership, including Abu Bakar. Muhyiddin indicated he would seek a full report before commenting further, noting that those who resigned from leadership roles were still officially Bersatu members. Abu Bakar clarified that his resignation from the Supreme Council was to dedicate his full attention to his role as Chief Minister, with approximately one year remaining in his term.
Whatever action or decision Muhyiddin makes hereafter regarding my resignation as a Supreme Council member, including if I am expelled from the party, I will accept with an open heart.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.