Adakah PAS terus jadi ‘pemberi yang pemurah’ di Melaka, soal penganalisis

Analysts ponder whether PAS will continue to be the "benevolent provider" in Melaka if the Barisan Nasional (BN)-Perikatan Nasional (PN) collaborate during the 2021 PRN Melaka, according to political analyst Yusri Ibrahim. The expert highlighted that collaboration between BN and PN in Johor and Negeri Sembilan was easier due to Umno's dominant position, while PAS could serve as a supplementary party by surrendering more seats to Umno.

However, he noted that the political landscape in Melaka differs significantly, as Umno and PAS each have reasons to claim they are in a stronger position. In the 2021 PRN Melaka, Umno-led BN secured a landslide victory by controlling the majority of Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) seats and formed the state government. In contrast, during the 2022 PRU15, BN lost all six federal parliamentary seats, while PN won three seats through PAS in Tangga Batu, Jasin, and Bersatu gaining Masjid Tanah.

"Even if the parliamentary voters followed DUN seats, PN would far outstrip BN, 10-4. In the context of Melaka, the ratio in the last election, PN outperformed BN, while PAS outperformed Umno," he stated on Facebook. Yusri further emphasized that in this scenario, the question arises: "Will PAS continue to be the generous provider like in Johor and Negeri Sembilan?

Will Umno be willing to give more to PAS in the current dominant PN situation?" He added that regardless, PRN Melaka only serves as a catalyst for their relationship dynamics. Earlier this week, PAS President Hadi Awang was quoted saying that the cooperation formula similar to Johor and Negeri Sembilan may not necessarily be replicated in Melaka due to local developments and political dynamics.

He also referred to the absence of a BN representative in DUN seats in Melaka. Meanwhile, Melaka BN Chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh stated on Sunday that his party is open to collaboration with anyone through the 'BN Plus' formula, but stressed that discussions will not necessarily lead to consensus. PAS had previously announced its intention to contest in all 28 DUN seats in Melaka, including challenging Rauf in Tanjung Bidara, with potential seats such as Pantai Kundor, Paya Rumput, Klebang, Ayer Limau, Kuala Linggi, Rembia, Durian Tunggal, Pengkalan Batu, Duyong, Merlimau, and Serkam.