Support for Wan Rosdy shows Bersatu rethinking strategy, says analyst

Analyst Azmi Hassan noted that the support of two Bersatu assemblymen for Pahang Menteri Besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail may indicate a shift in the party's strategy following its inability to displace Umno as the dominant force in Malay politics. Syaza Shukri, an analyst from International Islamic University Malaysia, stated that Bersatu must now face the reality that its efforts have fallen short, especially after losing all contested seats in the recent elections in Johor and Negeri Sembilan.

Syaza suggested that to avoid being reduced to a junior partner, Bersatu may have to work with Umno, even if it poses risks. The two concerned Bersatu representatives, Kuala Sentul assemblyman Jasri Jamaludin and Lepar assemblyman Yazid Yunus, declared their support after gaining approval from Bersatu's leadership, headed by Muhyiddin Yassin. The endorsement was driven by the need to maintain political stability in Pahang, where Bersatu holds only two assemblymen compared to PAS's 15.

Azmi Hassan from Akademi Nusantara emphasized the significance of this support, given that it was endorsed by Muhyiddin himself, the Bersatu president. He also pointed out that Bersatu is increasingly marginalized within the coalition, with PAS having a considerable presence in PN. The analyst noted that Bersatu's move could be a political message to show its willingness to cooperate outside PN, potentially signaling an early interest in forming ties with the unity government, specifically with Pakatan Harapan (PH).

Currently, Pahang's 42-seat assembly is governed by a unity administration comprising both BN and PH, with the latter holding a majority.