PN’s Future Remains Uncertain Despite Leadership Shake-up, Analysts Say

KUALA LUMPUR – The future of the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition remains shrouded in uncertainty despite the recent appointment of new leadership following months of internal instability. Political observers suggest that while the transition aims to refresh the alliance, underlying tensions between its core components PAS and Bersatu could still lead to a fragmented opposition.

The coalition officially named Terengganu Menteri Besar and PAS Vice-President, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, as its new Chairman. This appointment fills the vacuum left by Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who resigned from the top post on January 1. In a surprising turn of events, Muhyiddin was appointed as the Deputy Chairman, a move seen by many as a strategic “demotion.”

Political analyst Associate Prof. Dr. Mazlan Ali noted that Muhyiddin’s new role as a subordinate to a younger leader might create friction within the grassroots. “Muhyiddin is an experienced former Prime Minister with significant contributions. Seeing him ‘demoted’ while a younger leader takes the helm suggests a shift in hierarchy that supporters may find difficult to follow,” Dr. Mazlan told Bernama.

The analysis further highlights a deepening rift between Bersatu and PAS. Despite the public display of harmony during the Supreme Council meeting, experts believe the relationship remains fragile. There are indications that PAS may be more comfortable aligned with Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin, the former Bersatu Secretary-General who was recently expelled from his party.

Dr. Mazlan suggested that if Hamzah decides to form a new political entity, PAS might pivot toward him, potentially leaving Bersatu isolated. “Hamzah maintains strong support from a majority of Bersatu’s MPs and division heads. If he establishes a new party, PAS will likely prioritize political survival and strength, which could lead to Bersatu being sidelined from the coalition,” he added.

On a different note, socio-political analyst Prof. Datuk Dr. Awang Azman Awang Pawi viewed the appointment of Ahmad Samsuri from a different lens. He suggested that placing a PAS leader at the forefront of PN is a calculated strategy to moderate the coalition’s image and appeal to non-Malay voters, who have traditionally been wary of the alliance.

While the new leadership structure is now in place, the consensus among analysts is that PN’s road ahead is far from clear. The coalition’s ability to maintain its internal unity amidst leadership rivalries will be the ultimate test of its viability in the Malaysian political landscape.