In-depth analysis and insight on Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
PAS president Hadi Awang has dismissed suggestions that the party's June 8 split from Bersatu constitutes a deliberate campaign strategy, as Bersatu prepares aggressive electoral campaigns in upcoming state polls.
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The deteriorating relationship between PAS and Bersatu has fractured the Malay-Muslim political bloc, opening space for Umno to position itself as a steadier alternative—though deep questions about its credibility persist among analysts.
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A widening rift between PAS and Bersatu is fracturing the Malay political consensus, analysts warn, opening space for Umno to emerge as a unifying alternative—though the party must first address persistent credibility questions.