Use of BN logo may boost PAS, but analysts see risks for both sides

Analysts foresee both benefits and risks for Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pas if the latter adopts BN's logo in the upcoming Melaka election. Syaza Shukri of International Islamic University Malaysia warns BN could inadvertently aid PAS's growth in the region, potentially making PAS stronger than BN. PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang has reportedly indicated PAS is open to using BN's logo for the state poll.

However, Syaza argues PAS will likely only agree to the deal if it secures a significant number of seats, particularly winnable ones. Syaza also questions reciprocity, wondering if PAS would allow BN candidates to use its logo in PAS-led states. Mazlan Ali of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia raises concerns about how the arrangement would function if their partnership unravels.

Smaller Perikatan Nasional component parties like Gerakan and the Malaysian Indian People’s Party could also be affected. BN's Azmi Hassan questions whether the arrangement will actually impact their chances of winning Melaka, as BN might still secure victory. He also suggests PAS may weaken its negotiating stance with BN for the 16th general election if PAS contests under BN's "dancing" logo.