Politics · Malaysia Bureau
PAS downplays Zahid's muktamar absence, affirms BN-PN alliance
The Islamic party insists its cooperation with Barisan Nasional remains on track despite the deputy prime minister's absence from its assembly. Party officials say negotiations on the upcoming Melaka state elections will proceed in coming days.
LSN Malaysia ·
PAS has moved to allay concerns about its political alliance with Barisan Nasional following the absence of Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi from the party's muktamar, or annual assembly.
Party Secretary-General Takiyuddin Hassan stressed that the two coalitions remain committed to their working relationship, dismissing suggestions that the absence signals a rift in their cooperation. The PAS official said discussions regarding their collaborative approach to the Melaka state election would continue over the coming days.
The BN-PN partnership, formalized to strengthen both coalitions' electoral prospects, has become increasingly significant in Malaysia's political landscape. The Melaka polls represent an important test of the alliance's viability as both groups seek to consolidate support ahead of future electoral contests.
Takiyuddin's comments appear designed to project unity despite what could be interpreted as a notable absence from a key party event. The PAS leadership has historically used major assemblies to showcase party strength and reinforce messaging to grassroots members, making Zahid's non-attendance potentially noteworthy to party supporters.