Pas-UMNO unity could challenge PH dominance

Cooperation between Pas and UMNO could alter Malaysia’s political landscape at the 16th general election if the two parties succeed in uniting Malay voter support, according to Pas treasurer Datuk Iskandar Abdul Samad.

He said such a consolidation could place substantial pressure on Pakatan Harapan and Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia. The unity agenda is expected to be a major issue at Pas’s 72nd annual congress, which begins on 4 September at the Islamic Education Centre in Kelantan.

Iskandar stressed that Pas and UMNO currently share cooperation and understanding, rather than plans to establish a new coalition. He said the identity of any leader for the proposed cooperation was not the main issue. Reaching agreement between the two parties mattered more, he said.

He also warned that attempts to push either Pas or UMNO to lead could create friction and ultimately derail the unity effort. “If that happens, PH will ultimately be the beneficiary,” he said.

Iskandar said Pas no longer depended on Bersatu, citing current political developments and signs of strain in their alliance. In his view, Bersatu had no choice but to join PH because it could not remain with Perikatan Nasional after opposing the coalition in the Negeri Sembilan state election.

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If that happens, PH will ultimately be the beneficiary.