FORMER opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin has been advised against being over-zealously looking forward to unveil his new party next month after being sacked from Bersatu in February.
This is because despite claiming the party has received quite an incredible response “with membership expected to reach hundreds of thousands”, the former Bersatu deputy president is only doing DAP a big favour as “the Malays will be more divided than ever.”
On the contrary, Hamzah was reminded that he should learn from disgruntled DAP leaders who “never set up new parties every GE (general election) unlike Malay leaders who form new political parties every GE”.
As pointed out by some commenters, the only consolation or exception is that his new party “will eventually contest under one symbol” or “perhaps, be a PN (Perikatan Nasional) affiliate”.
It is imperative therefore for Hamzah not to pursue is ambition which is seen as a power craze strategy by being a Bersatu splinter party given the Malays will eventually be split into small factions which render them a weak voice.
Accusing the Larut MP as “disruptor of Malay unity”, some detractors accused him of pursuing self-interest after his Bersatu sacking on Feb 13 for alleged betrayal and party sabotage.
Moreover, Hamzah’s new party which is likened to a “Tupperware party” is seen as a ploy to challenge Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s leadership within the PN coalition.
Testing the waters
It remains to be seen if the new party idea is merely a testbed for Hamzah to gauge his popularity among the Bersatu grassroots given he is rather secretive about the party structure, leadership and who will jointly lead the struggle.
After all, the former home minister during the PN/Barisan Nasional (BN) is also seen as being cautious in issuing statements, perhaps to ensure that all plans are running smoothly before his new party is being officially announced to the public.
Overall, this development will definitely attract the attention of many, especially domestic political observers. With claims of large initial support, many are now wondering whether this new party can become a new force or simply add more colour to the Malaysian political arena.
Perhaps as one commenter aptly put it, Hamzah can best remain as “an independent candidate lest he harbours ambition to be the future PM (Prime Minister)”.
“The important thing is to get a monthly salary … Moreover, you’re already entitled to a pension now … Where will the capital come from (to form a new party)? … Don’t tell me from passing the Milo tin around,” he quipped. – April 21, 2026.
