Pas Muktamar takes on a new tone as party eyes next political chapter

KOTA BARU: The 72nd Pas Muktamar commenced on Thursday with a newfound political maturity, underscoring the party's growing influence amidst a shifting political landscape. Party chief Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang arrived with Pas secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan and other leaders, marking a departure from past gatherings in terms of attendee size and atmosphere.

Attendees, dressed in white baju Melayu and baju kurung, hailed from diverse professional and social backgrounds nationwide, underscoring the party's expanding reach. This year's event also coincides with Pas's 75th anniversary, or Diamond Jubilee, marking its journey since 1951.

In his opening remarks, Takiyuddin emphasized Pas's ability to attract not just core supporters but also associate members, including non-Muslims – a sign of the party's efforts to broaden its appeal beyond its traditional base. A notable change this year was the presence of political figures from unlikely backgrounds – Perikatan Nasional (PN) component parties like Bersatu, Gerakan, and Pejuang, as well as senior Umno leaders.

The attendance of Umno leaders, including Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, added a broader coalition aspect to the event, a first for a Pas gathering.

The invitation of Umno leaders followed Pas's decision to invite the party's leadership to the meeting, a significant move given the historical opposition between the two parties. The reciprocal invitations highlight how the relationship between Pas and Umno, both Malay-based parties, is evolving. Pas president Hadi's policy speech signaled a shift in the party's perspective, moving from electoral campaigning to preparing for governance and consolidation of power.

Hadi noted that Pas had received divine assistance following its electoral success – winning 43 parliamentary seats and 149 state seats while governing four states and expanding its influence in several others.

Hadi emphasized that the challenge now is greater than merely winning elections; the party must be ready to "fill the victory" within its capabilities, signaling a shift from campaigning to effective governance. Describing this 72nd Muktamar as the most crucial before the 16th General Election, Hadi aimed to reaffirm Pas's political direction, consolidate its gains, and elevate its political influence.

This message is particularly significant given Pas's current status within the opposition-led political landscape, as it is already the dominant force in Kelantan, Terengganu, and Kedah, and holds substantial parliamentary strength, positioning it as a central player in future political realignments.