PAS says working with PH out of the question

PAS has rejected any suggestion that it cooperate with opposition parties in the next election, welcoming a statement by the Islamist party’s offshoot Amanah that the latter would work with anyone except the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition.

In a statement, PAS called for the strengthening of the political coalitions which make up the present federal government, saying it would not work with other opposition parties, “especially Pakatan Harapan”.

The party said it believed Barisan Nasional (BN), PN, Gabungan Parti Sarawak, PBS and STAR should forge closer cooperation, calling this the best approach to maintaining political stability.

“PAS is confident that the nation’s unity achieved through the collaboration of the country’s main parties based on the concept of Malay-Muslim and Bumiputera unity is the most effective formula and will be accepted by the majority of Malaysians,” PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan said.

This comes amid reports that PN could enter into some form of arrangement with PH to face BN at the next general election under the so-called “big tent” approach, and worries that the court cluster group in Umno is keen on returning to power if BN continues its winning streak at the polls.

PAS, which had inked a charter of cooperation with Umno under Muafakat Nasional, decided to remain in PN together with Bersatu, and has been urging both Malay-based parties to put aside their quarrels.

Takiyuddin today said that PAS was always ready to discuss and work with any party that prioritised unity and harmony in facing the general election.

“What is important during this post-pandemic era is that the interests of the people and country are given precedence.”