World · Malaysia Bureau
Bersatu green-lights Pahang assemblymen's defection to back Umno MB
The Bersatu party leadership has sanctioned two of its Pahang assemblymen to lend their support to the state's Menteri Besar, in a move signalling shifting political alignments in the eastern state.
LSN Malaysia ·
KUALA LUMPUR — Bersatu's top leadership has given its approval for two party assemblymen in Pahang to back the incumbent Menteri Besar, marking a significant political realignment in the state.
The decision underscores the fluid nature of coalition politics in Malaysia's state assemblies, where smaller parties often navigate between larger political blocs to maintain influence and secure positions.
The Bersatu assemblymen's move to support the Umno-led Menteri Besar comes amid ongoing discussions within the party about optimising its political positioning in Pahang. Party officials have indicated that the decision aims to stabilise the state government and ensure continuity in administration.
The development reflects the broader pattern of inter-party cooperation between Umno and Bersatu at the state level, despite their complicated relationship at the national level. Political analysts suggest the move could strengthen the Menteri Besar's legislative base ahead of potential challenges.
Bersatu, which holds a modest number of seats in the Pahang state assembly, has previously demonstrated flexibility in supporting various government formations across Malaysia's states as part of broader political calculations.