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

Political analysts have expressed concerns over PAS using BN's logo in the Melaka state election, as both parties may benefit but face potential risks. Syaza Shukri of International Islamic University Malaysia stated that BN risks strengthening PAS's influence in Melaka, which could ultimately lead to PAS surpassing BN. The negotiations between PAS and BN for the Melaka election are reportedly progressing well, with PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang reportedly open to using BN's logo at the polls.

However, Syaza noted that PAS would likely only agree to use BN's logo if it secured a sufficient number of seats, particularly winnable ones. If PAS fails to secure more than seven seats or fails to obtain some of the winnable seats, Syaza believes the arrangement would resemble Johor's support for BN, merely providing backing rather than a genuine partnership. She also questioned whether PAS would allow BN candidates to contest under PAS's banner in PAS-led states if the arrangement were to break down.

Mazlan Ali of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia raised concerns about the complications that could arise if the relationship between PAS and BN were to dissolve. If PAS candidates contested under BN's logo and received their watikah (candidate appointment letter) from BN leadership, complications could arise. Additionally, the arrangement could negatively impact smaller Perikatan Nasional component parties such as Gerakan and the Malaysian Indian People’s Party if BN decides to work directly with PAS.

Azmi Hassan of Akademi Nusantara suggested that PAS might weaken its bargaining position in seat negotiations with BN for the 16th general election by using BN's "dancing" logo, which is more recognizable to voters. However, this could become a liability for PAS after the Melaka election, as it could be used by BN to argue that BN holds more influence in the region.