PAS is set to assume leadership of Malaysia’s opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional (PN), resolving the previous mismatch between its strong parliamentary presence and lack of formal authority within the alliance.
But this shift carries risks, and the onus is on PAS to produce a PN lineup that appears credible and inclusive.
Although the full extent of PAS’ strategic intentions behind its bid to assume leadership of PN coalition remains unclear, a recent The Straits Times analysis has highlighted the key risks facing the Islamist party in this bold move.
Analysts speaking to The Straits Times highlighted significant challenges for PAS in broadening PN’s appeal beyond its core Malay-Muslim base under the party’s leadership.
The party struggles to attract non-Malay voters, who often perceive it as extreme, and its image had been moderated previously by Bersatu’s dominant role.
To position itself as a viable alternative to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s multi-ethnic coalition, PN needs a leadership lineup that appears credible and inclusive.
Analysts are questioning whether PAS can meet the challenge.
Political analyst Tunku Mohar Mokhtar said PAS could elevate Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar to a prominent leadership role in the coalition. However, his position as one of PAS’ three vice-presidents — rather than president or deputy president — could hinder acceptance among PN’s partner parties.
At 55, Dr Samsuri is widely regarded as a technocratic figure in the Islamist party. With a background as an aerospace engineer holding a PhD from the University of Leeds, he spent years in academia and engineering management before entering politics.
Many in PAS view this professional profile as an asset for expanding PN’s appeal beyond its traditional base of ulama supporters.
Political analyst Ariff Aizuddin Azlan from Universiti Teknologi Mara told the Singapore portal that internal dynamics within PAS are likely to favour its 65-year-old deputy president, Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, for a prominent role in the coalition’s leadership.
Dr Ariff emphasised that legitimacy in PAS leadership hinges not only on administrative skills but also on religious credentials and party hierarchy, with an ulama background carrying significant weight. However, speculation is growing that PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang himself could be positioned to lead PN.
Other reports suggest PAS might accommodate nominations from Bersatu figures in the leadership structure, with Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin frequently mentioned as a potential compromise candidate.
Meanwhile, Dr Samsuri continues to be floated as another option. — Jan 3, 2026
