Bersatu will lose ground with foot-dragging over PN, says analyst

Analyst Asrul Sani predicts Bersatu will lose political ground due to its slow response to Malaysia's evolving political landscape while tied to Perikatan Nasional (PN). PAS has severed ties with Bersatu, and Wawasan has become the preferred partner for Malaysia's Islamic party. Asrul argues that staying with PN risks further defections, weakens morale in Bersatu's grassroots, and prolongs uncertainty over seats and cooperation. He highlights that PAS and Wawasan are steadily absorbing Bersatu's political influence.

The recent defections, including the Kangar Bersatu division committee, youth, and women's wings, as well as 90 branch chiefs, signal the growing dissatisfaction among Bersatu's members. Asrul asserts that Muhyiddin Yassin, Bersatu's president, should let the party move beyond PN to define its own identity and explore new partnerships. However, leaving PN comes with risks, such as losing PN's brand and access to PAS's grassroots support, which could lead to multi-cornered elections without an obvious partner.

Asrul notes that Muhyiddin still has potential strategies to disrupt PAS's electoral plans, but PN should not remain at the heart of Bersatu's strategy. Bersatu cannot simply outdo PAS or Umno on Malay affairs, as both rivals have stronger roots and clearer identities. Muhyiddin must present a credible vision for the country, including the economy, governance, and Malaysia's future. Asrul suggests that Muhyiddin may be trying to assert control over Bersatu and PN, despite the coalition's potential collapse.