PAS must show how it plans to govern Malaysia, analysts say

Analysts assert that while the Islamic party PAS managed to win the 16th general election, it must demonstrate a clear plan on how it intends to govern Malaysia if it assumes power in Putrajaya. The 72nd muktamar of PAS, held in Pengkalan Chepa, Kelantan, will likely focus on its relations with the ruling party Umno, but analysts believe the crucial question to be addressed is PAS's vision for administration and policies to benefit the people.

Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri of Global Asia Consulting stated that voters would want to know PAS’s stance on the economy, education, productivity, job creation, technology, and artificial intelligence, along with tackling regional poverty. Without this clarity, political unity with Umno would merely serve as a "bridge to Putrajaya" rather than a genuine governing plan.

The muktamar, set to continue until September 5, will discuss motions on Malay unity and political cooperation between PAS and Umno, but Sivamurugan Pandian of Universiti Sains Malaysia expects a final decision on the form of cooperation to be deferred until later negotiations. PAS-led states such as Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu, and Perlis could serve as a benchmark for PAS's ability to offer an alternative model of federal governance.

However, political divisions, such as those in Perlis between PAS and Bersatu, complicate the situation.

Afifi Abdul Razak of Universiti Utara Malaysia noted that the economic performance of PAS-led states has been mixed, with gross domestic product remaining below the national average. Despite progress in reducing poverty since 2022, state leaders should focus on indicators like investment, job quality, income levels, productivity, education, infrastructure, and public service.

Sivamurugan emphasized that PAS needs to bring in professionals and technocrats to broaden its appeal among the middle class and urban voters, ensuring these individuals are genuinely involved in policymaking.