PAS is maintaining its alliance with Bersatu within the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition to maximize electoral gains, despite internal tensions and the Islamic party’s growing dominance. According to political analyst Asrul Sani of The Asia Group, PAS is intentionally separating its public rhetoric from its electoral strategy, viewing the partnership as a tool rather than a fixed commitment.
Why PAS is keeping Bersatu as an ally
PAS has opted against a formal break with Bersatu to avoid the immediate electoral costs of splitting the Malay vote, which could inadvertently benefit Barisan Nasional (BN) or Pakatan Harapan (PH). Asrul Sani explains that while PAS is currently the dominant force in PN—boasting superior machinery and deeper roots in the Malay heartlands—Bersatu remains essential for capturing specific voter segments.
“Bersatu’s value lies in its ability to attract segments of Malays who may support PN but are not fully comfortable voting directly for PAS,” Asrul told FMT. By keeping Bersatu on the ticket, PAS maintains a strategic buffer while retaining the flexibility to renegotiate the alliance after upcoming state polls.
PAS has been led by Abdul Hadi Awang since 2002. Under his tenure, the party has consistently treated political alliances as flexible instruments rather than rigid ideological pacts.
The Johor factor: Why timing matters
The relationship between the two parties is currently strained, yet the Johor state election serves as a unique pressure point. Oh Ei Sun of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs notes that Bersatu holds significant influence in the south, particularly as it is the home state of Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin, who served as menteri besar there for nine years.
“PAS cannot afford to enrage Bersatu just yet,” Oh said. The dependency is mutual in this specific region. However, Oh suggests that the diplomatic facade may be temporary: “When the Johor election is over, then perhaps the gloves will come off, and PAS will really show its true colours to Bersatu.”
What happens after the state elections?
The future of the PAS-Bersatu cooperation hinges on the results of upcoming contests, particularly in Negeri Sembilan. Asrul Sani points out that the performance of Parti Wawasan Negara will be a key test for the coalition’s internal balance of power.
- If Wawasan succeeds: If the party can win enough votes with PAS support, Bersatu may find itself becoming redundant within the opposition ecosystem.
- If Bersatu remains relevant: If the party competes strongly on its own merits, PAS will likely be forced to continue the relationship despite existing trust issues.
Watch the post-election seat negotiations closely. PAS’s decision to “defend Malay-Muslim political power” without explicitly endorsing Bersatu candidates in all instances is a clear signal that they are keeping their options open for future realignments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PAS still part of Perikatan Nasional?
Yes. Despite internal friction and strategic disagreements, both PAS and Bersatu remain component parties of the Perikatan Nasional coalition.
Why did PAS not make a final decision on Bersatu?
According to reports following their central committee meeting, PAS chose to focus on the broader goal of “defending Malay-Muslim political power” rather than finalizing the status of their partnership, allowing them to remain flexible for future elections.
What is the risk for PN in these elections?
The primary risk identified by analysts is a split in the Malay vote. If the alliance breaks down, it could weaken the opposition’s overall performance, ultimately benefiting rivals like Barisan Nasional or Pakatan Harapan.
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