World · Malaysia Bureau
UMNO signals preference for PAS talks over broader PN coalition
The ruling party's secretary-general has indicated UMNO would rather negotiate directly with PAS than engage with the wider Perikatan Nasional coalition. No formal decision has been made as discussions have yet to commence.
LSN Malaysia ·
UMNO's Secretary-General Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki signalled on Monday that the party favours direct negotiations with PAS over discussions with the broader Perikatan Nasional coalition, though he cautioned that no official decision had been reached.
Speaking at UMNO's annual general meeting, Asyraf indicated the party's preference for a bilateral approach with PAS rather than engaging with the larger coalition structure. He stressed that the matter remains preliminary, with substantive talks yet to begin between the parties.
The preference reflects UMNO's strategic positioning within Malaysia's complex coalition landscape, where the party has sought to strengthen relationships with Islamic-based political partners. The comments come amid ongoing discussions about political realignments at the national level.
UMNO officials have previously emphasized the importance of unity among Malay-Muslim political forces in the country's political framework. The party's current positioning suggests it may pursue selective partnerships rather than broader multi-party arrangements.