BN Gains Momentum as PAS-Bersatu Split Shakes PN Ahead of Johor Polls

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 2026 — The internal conflict within Perikatan Nasional (PN) is expected to give Barisan Nasional (BN) a political advantage in the Johor State Election 2026, according to ILHAM Centre Executive Director Hisomuddin Bakar. The analyst said the open disagreement between PAS and Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) could affect PN’s image as a united coalition ahead of polling day.

Hisomuddin explained that both PAS and Bersatu had previously played an important role in strengthening PN’s political brand in Johor. Together, the two parties helped PN become a serious challenger to BN in a state traditionally known as a stronghold of UMNO and Barisan Nasional. However, the current disagreement between the two component parties may reduce voter confidence in PN’s ability to present a stable political alternative.

The political tension became more visible after PAS President Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang announced on June 8 that the party would end its political cooperation with Bersatu. Following the decision, PAS also stated that its election machinery would not assist Bersatu candidates during the Johor state election campaign.

According to Hisomuddin, this situation could influence voter perception, especially among young voters. He said young voters are more likely to support a coalition that appears stable, organised, and free from continuous controversy. If the dispute between PAS and Bersatu continues to be seen openly through social media and mainstream media, it may affect how voters make their decisions.

Young voters are expected to play a major role in the Johor election. Based on Election Commission statistics reported by Astro AWANI, Johor has 1,297,931 registered voters aged between 18 and 39, representing about 47.6 percent of the total 2,727,926 registered voters in the state.

With early voting scheduled for July 7 and polling day set for July 11, 2026, the political stability of each coalition may become one of the key factors influencing voter sentiment. BN could benefit if it successfully positions itself as a more stable and united option, while PN may need to manage its internal tension carefully to avoid losing support in a highly competitive election.

The Johor State Election 2026 will be closely watched as it tests BN’s strength in its traditional base and PN’s ability to maintain momentum despite internal pressure. The outcome may also reflect how much political unity, coalition discipline, and young voter sentiment can shape the future of Johor politics.