An analyst identifies Perak as the latest testing ground for the relationship between PAS and Bersatu, following a suggestion from a PAS leader that the Islamic party should lead the state if Perikatan Nasional secures a majority in the next election.
Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri stated that this dispute could escalate to the national level of the coalition. This is particularly significant as Perak has been viewed as a Bersatu stronghold since vice president Ahmad Faizal Azumu served as menteri besar from 2018 to 2020.
The analyst from Global Asia Consulting noted that Perak has become a bone of contention. He observed that Bersatu, having failed to establish strong confidence, now faces a PAS that is increasingly self-assured and eager to hold power.
Testing the credibility of the coalition
Zaharuddin warned that if these internal fractures are not managed with prudence, the coalition risks losing more than just the Perak election. It could potentially damage its overall credibility as a viable national alternative.
He suggested that the confidence displayed by PAS stems from its previous experience in the Perak government. The party was part of Pakatan Rakyat from 2008 to 2009, and later collaborated with Umno and Bersatu between 2020 and 2022.
These instances, according to Zaharuddin, proved the ability of PAS to adapt to complex political alliances. This historical involvement provides the party with the conviction that it can successfully lead the state administration once again.
Pressure on the Bersatu alliance
The discussion was sparked earlier this week when Perak PAS Youth strategy director Nurhafizul Badrul Hisham claimed the party had five leaders capable of leading the state. Among those mentioned were vice president Idris Ahmad and state opposition leader Razman Zakaria.
However, Idris Ahmad downplayed the remark, stating he was not qualified for the role. Similarly, Razman Zakaria commented that his political journey did not revolve around competing for high-ranking positions.
Tawfik Yaakub of Universiti Malaya interpreted the proposal as a fresh wave of pressure from PAS on its ally. He suggested that the formal platforms for discussion within the coalition might be little more than a political charade.
Suitability and leadership concerns
Yaakub argued that the turmoil in the relationship between the two parties is becoming more apparent than their purported friendship. He also raised concerns regarding the potential candidacy of Razman Zakaria for the menteri besar post.
The academic highlighted that Razman Zakaria, a controversial assemblyman, has lost several defamation cases over the past four years. He questioned whether such a figure, who has issued apologies and retractions for slanderous remarks, was the right choice to lead a state government.
In September, Razman Zakaria lost his position as Perak PAS chief, with Idris Ahmad taking over the role. Yaakub noted that Idris Ahmad is likely better suited for a federal position, suggesting that the menteri besar post would be a demotion for the former religious affairs minister.
