Muhyiddin confirms Bersatu alliance talks started, denies Jana Wibawa court outcome tied to Pakatan cooperation

Muhyiddin Yassin, president of Bersatu, confirmed that the party has initiated talks with multiple political entities in order to form a new alliance ahead of the 16th General Election. However, Muhyiddin stated that a final decision has not yet been made. The political cooperation between Bersatu and PAS formally concluded in June, which prompted Bersatu to explore other possibilities for collaboration.

Muhyiddin emphasized that the party is open to working with any political party that aligns with its fundamental principles and stressed that Bersatu cannot favor any specific party when determining its future political alignment. This comes after Bersatu's experience in the Negeri Sembilan state election, where the party contested alone and saw the importance of cooperation demonstrated.

Despite rumors of negotiations with Pakatan Harapan (PH), Muhyiddin did not mention any specific parties that had approached Bersatu, stating that the party is open to discussions with all parties. Meanwhile, Pakatan Harapan Melaka chairman Adly Zahari confirmed that PH is in discussions with Bersatu and other parties for a potential "PH Plus" collaboration for the Melaka state election, although any cooperation would only be announced post negotiations.

The deteriorating relationship between Bersatu and PAS has played a significant role in Muhyiddin's decisions, as PAS formally ended political cooperation with Bersatu on June 8. Muhyiddin also mentioned that Bersatu was denied cooperation within Perikatan Nasional (PN), particularly by PAS, leaving the party with limited options.

Additionally, Muhyiddin has denied any connection between his recent court outcome and efforts to cooperate with PH. He was acquitted of four out of seven charges related to the Jana Wibawa program, including allegations of using his position to obtain RM200 million in alleged bribes. The court decision, which acquitted Muhyiddin, was based on the interests of justice and not influenced by political cooperation, according to Muhyiddin.