Pas Bersatu Rift Could Shake Op Unity Ph Risks Losing Grassroots Support Says Activist

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ACTIVIST Liyana Marzuki has highlighted growing tensions within the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition, warning that unresolved dissatisfaction could lead to significant political shifts.
“There are rumours within PAS that when they met Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, they proposed Takiyuddin as deputy prime minister, but Bersatu prefers Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin.
“This has sparked dissatisfaction within PAS,” Liyana said, pointing out that Takiyuddin, despite his seniority, failed to secure even the role of PN information chief.
“PAS is beginning to feel sidelined, and if this isn’t handled properly, it’s only a matter of time before they might swing back to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” she added.
On the broader political landscape, Liyana noted that as long as PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang remains in charge, unity between PAS and PKR seems unlikely.
“However, if he’s no longer president, professionals within PAS might steer the party towards the unity government, though it would face many challenges,” she remarked.
Shifting her focus to the government, Liyana criticised Pakatan Harapan (PH) for neglecting influential Malay NGOs.
“These NGOs have been trying to engage with the Prime Minister’s Office for better relations, but their efforts seem poorly received, possibly due to their vocal criticisms,” she explained.
Calling this a “big mistake”, Liyana pointed out PH’s lack of traction among Malay voters.
“PH only has around 15% of the Malay vote, a figure that hasn’t improved. Ignoring these grassroots groups risks alienating further support,” she warned.
She cautioned that PH’s reliance on urban, elite Malays and the T20 group could backfire.
“The current policies don’t favour them, and there’s a real risk they might boycott the next election,” she said, adding, “Three years isn’t a long time. If things aren’t handled properly, we might see someone aiming for a third term as prime minister.”
While recognising the contributions of past leaders, Liyana concluded, “Surely there are other capable leaders in Malaysia. We must look forward.” — Focus Malaysia

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