Leadership Transition in Perikatan Nasional: Abdul Hadi Awang's Prospects

The political landscape of Malaysia's Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition is undergoing significant changes following the resignation of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin as its chairman. As the president of Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS), Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang is positioned as a leading candidate to assume this role. However, political analysts suggest that other figures within PAS and its coalition partner, Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), may also be contenders for leadership.

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Hisommudin Bakar, CEO of Ilham Centre, notes that while Abdul Hadi is a natural choice due to his status within PAS, the acceptance of any nominee will depend on consensus among coalition partners. Alternatives such as PAS deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man and secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan have been mentioned, with Takiyuddin being viewed as a balanced candidate who could unify the coalition. The urgency of appointing a new leader is underscored by concerns that delays could lead to a leadership crisis and potential fractures within the coalition.

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The internal dynamics of PN have been further complicated by a recent crisis in Perlis, where tensions between PAS and Bersatu have escalated. The Menteri Besar of Perlis, Mohd Shukri Ramli, offered to resign amid allegations of regulatory non-compliance related to state projects. This situation has led to the dismissal of three PAS lawmakers who sided with Bersatu, highlighting the growing rift within the coalition. Political analysts attribute this conflict to Bersatu's attempts to assert leadership despite being the smaller party in the coalition.

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The potential leadership of Abdul Hadi Awang raises concerns about the coalition's inclusivity. Critics argue that PAS's leadership could deter non-Malay voters and hinder initiatives aimed at broadening the coalition's appeal. The departure of Muhyiddin, who had worked to attract diverse support, may further complicate these efforts. As PAS assumes a more prominent role, its image as a less inclusive party could impact the coalition's ability to attract new members, such as the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC).

PAS signals bid to lead Perikatan Nasional after Muhyiddin’s resignation

PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari emphasized that while Abdul Hadi is a prominent candidate, the party will nominate someone capable of uniting the coalition. He described Muhyiddin's resignation as a timely decision that allows for a necessary reorganization within PN as it prepares for future elections.

PAS signals bid to lead Perikatan Nasional after Muhyiddin’s resignation

Critics, including Datuk Mahfuz Omar from Amanah, argue that the ongoing power struggle within PAS and PN reflects a failure to maintain coalition discipline. Political analyst Azmi Hassan suggests that Bersatu's push for leadership is a strategic maneuver to assert its relevance within the coalition, indicating deeper issues that extend beyond the Perlis crisis.

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While Abdul Hadi is widely regarded as a leading candidate for the PN chairmanship, there is no consensus on whether he will ultimately secure the position. The dynamics within PAS and Bersatu, as well as the coalition's direction, remain fluid and uncertain.

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• “The intention to attract non-Malay voters to Perikatan may not succeed as well if PAS is at the forefront of Perikatan’s leadership,” — Political Analyst

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• “PAS has taken action to discipline the party; now I feel Bersatu should do the same to its assemblymen.” — Datuk Mahfuz Omar, Deputy President of Amanah

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• “Everything failed. This proves an undeniable fact that the real problem is the internal power struggle within PAS and PN’s failure to control its own coalition,” — Datuk Mahfuz Omar

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As the situation evolves, the leadership transition within Perikatan Nasional will be closely monitored, with implications for Malaysia's political landscape leading up to the next general election.

The Straits Times