Mesra PAS tak bermakna Umno tutup pintu kerjasama PH, kata penganalisis

Umno has invited the top PAS leaders to attend their grand conference from September 9 to 12, suggesting that the relationship between Umno and PAS is becoming increasingly open, but it does not necessarily indicate that Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) are choosing Perikatan Nasional (PN) over Pakatan Harapan (PH) in political cooperation, including in the upcoming PRN Melaka, says analyst Mujibu Abd Muis.

Mujibu Muis from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) stated that Umno's move to invite PAS' top leaders to the PAU in September next year is more about expanding their political options rather than signaling a readiness to cooperate with BN and PN in the upcoming state elections. He emphasized that the invitation is a political signal and an effort to open communication channels, but it does not mean BN-PN have reached an understanding for PRN Melaka.

However, politically, it remains significant because after the experiences in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, Umno realizes that PAS is one of the options that can change the mathematics of the state elections, especially in consolidating Malay votes. Mujibu commented on the development of Umno-PAS relations following Umno's decision to invite PAS' top leaders to the PAU 2026, which will take place from September 9 to 12.

According to Umno Deputy Secretary General Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, the invitation was made in response to PAS' invitation to Umno's leader to attend the party's relevant congress from September 2 to 5. Meanwhile, Azmil Tayeb from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) noted that the friendly relationship displayed by Umno and PAS' leadership has not proven that they can cooperate when it comes to dividing seats and trying to unite each faction.

He added that the presence of PAS at the PAU is merely showcasing the image of Malay-Islam unity to the Malay society, but it has not been fully tested. Cooperation between PH and BN in Melaka may face challenges due to growing mistrust, particularly among the grassroots. PH needs to prepare to move independently and focus on their own affairs, Azmil said.