Muhyiddin Yassin Resigns as Perikatan Nasional Chairman Amid Internal Pressure

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin resigned as the chairman of the opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional (PN) effective January 1, 2026. His resignation was precipitated by mounting pressure from leaders and Members of Parliament (MPs) of Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS), who demanded his departure during a WhatsApp group discussion on December 29, 2025. Datuk Marzuki Mohamad, Muhyiddin's former principal private secretary, noted that despite Muhyiddin's willingness to resign, he insisted that the process adhere to the coalition's Constitution, which requires the supreme council's approval for such a decision.

The Straits TimesPAS pushes emergency PN meeting as Bersatu hails Muhyiddin as opposition’s most influential figure[UPDATED] Pas accepts Muhyiddin's resignation, PN to hold emergency meeting on replacementPAS accepts Muhyiddin’s resignation, PN to convene emergency meeting on new chairman

Muhyiddin's resignation follows a period of internal tension within PN, particularly between his party, Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), and PAS. The resignation was announced while Muhyiddin was in London for medical treatment, and PAS leaders have since called for an emergency meeting of the PN Supreme Council to formally confirm his resignation and discuss a successor. PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang emphasized the need for continuity in leadership and acknowledged Muhyiddin's contributions during his tenure.

[UPDATED] Pas accepts Muhyiddin's resignation, PN to hold emergency meeting on replacementPAS pushes emergency PN meeting as Bersatu hails Muhyiddin as opposition’s most influential figureThe Straits TimesPAS accepts Muhyiddin’s resignation, PN to convene emergency meeting on new chairman

As discussions regarding a successor commence, PAS is viewed as the most suitable party to lead PN, potentially marking the first time an Islamist party heads a national coalition in Malaysia. This shift could have significant implications for the political landscape, especially with the next general election scheduled by early 2028. Names such as Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor and Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar have emerged as potential candidates for the chairmanship, although no formal nominations have been made yet.

[UPDATED] Pas accepts Muhyiddin's resignation, PN to hold emergency meeting on replacement

Hadi expressed respect for Muhyiddin's decision, stating, "We place on record our highest appreciation for all the services and contributions he rendered during his tenure leading PN." Meanwhile, Bersatu leader Dr Afif Bahardin maintained that Muhyiddin remains a pivotal figure within the coalition, asserting that ongoing criticisms from political rivals reflect his continued influence.

PAS pushes emergency PN meeting as Bersatu hails Muhyiddin as opposition’s most influential figure

Despite the internal support for Muhyiddin, there are concerns regarding the coalition's stability following his resignation. Critics within and outside the coalition have raised questions about the leadership transition and the implications of PAS potentially taking a more dominant role. Observers are closely monitoring these developments, as the outcome could reshape the opposition's strategy leading up to the next election.

The Straits Times

While the resignation has been accepted by PAS, there remains uncertainty regarding the timeline for appointing a new chairman. Some leaders have suggested that discussions on a successor should not commence until Muhyiddin's resignation is formally confirmed by the PN Supreme Council, indicating a lack of consensus on the next steps.

PAS pushes emergency PN meeting as Bersatu hails Muhyiddin as opposition’s most influential figure

• “Resigning was Muhyiddin’s right, and that right should be respected,” — Datuk Marzuki Mohamad, Former Principal Private Secretary to Muhyiddin Yassin

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• “It is hoped that this matter can be taken into account and appropriate action taken given that the effective date of the resignation has exceeded 10 days,” — Abdul Hadi Awang, PAS President

PAS pushes emergency PN meeting as Bersatu hails Muhyiddin as opposition’s most influential figure

• “What is clear among the leaders in PN (is that) the one who is most revered (by our rivals) is Muhyiddin,” — Dr Afif Bahardin, Bersatu Leader

PAS pushes emergency PN meeting as Bersatu hails Muhyiddin as opposition’s most influential figure

As the coalition navigates this leadership transition, the political dynamics within Malaysia remain fluid, with significant implications for the future of the opposition.

The Straits Times