Give Umno one-third of seats in PAS-held states, says Nur Jazlan

Umno Supreme Council member Nur Jazlan Mohamed suggested that his party could play a significant role in improving PAS's image among non-Malays. According to him, PAS should allocate one-third of the seats in the four states it governs - Terengganu, Kelantan, Kedah, and Perlis - to Umno if they want to continue working together in future elections.

Nur Jazlan argued that a two-thirds share would be sufficient, citing the example of Johor's BN's two-thirds majority in 2022, which boosted investor confidence. He contrasted this with Terengganu, a state rich in oil, where foreign investors seem reluctant to invest, despite the state's resources. He suggested that PAS does not need to contest 100% of the seats in these states, but rather allocate one-third of the seats to Umno partners.

This move would demonstrate PAS's confidence in Malay unity and sincerity in pursuing it, according to Utusan Malaysia. The two parties have been gradually renewing their political cooperation, starting with an indirect understanding to avoid clashes in Johor and evolving into an informal electoral pact in Negeri Sembilan. They are now discussing possible electoral cooperation in the upcoming Melaka state election, with leaders from both parties attending each other's general assemblies.

Nur Jazlan addressed concerns that cooperation with PAS could alienate Chinese voters, stating that Umno could play a crucial role in improving PAS's image among non-Malays. He emphasized that non-Malay voters' main concern with PAS is their confidence in being able to live their lives freely. He believes that PAS can be flexible, but its flexibility will be influenced by its cooperation with Umno.

Thus, Umno plays a significant role in softening PAS's image in the future. Nur Jazlan also shared that his research shows Chinese support for Umno in Johor has returned to about 20%, attributed to confidence in the state leadership's handling of the economy and jobs. He believes that people will vote for a political party if they feel it can provide them with a better life and greater well-being, despite any prejudices associated with parties like Umno and PAS.