PAS in stronger position than Umno in Melaka, says analyst

Political analyst Wong Chin Huat of Sunway University suggests that the Islamic party PAS is in a stronger position than Umno in the Malaysian state of Melaka. Wong contends that the belief PAS' strength is confined to its northern and eastern strongholds is outdated. According to Wong, the 2022 general election (GE15) results show PAS has gained significant ground in Perak, Selangor, and Melaka.

In the GE15, Umno-led BN failed to secure any parliamentary seats in Melaka, while PH and PN each won three seats. Wong attributes PAS' success to the support of new voters and PH's difficulty in mobilising supporters. In the upcoming Melaka polls, BN and PAS Plus could win up to 24 seats, but it is unclear how many each bloc will contest.

PAS has a strong lead in 13 seats, including the Tanjung Bidara seat previously held by the state Umno chairman (Ab Rauf Yusoh). If Umno contests independently in Melaka, PAS Plus could become the largest bloc in the state assembly, Wong warns. PAS is likely to demand an equal share of seats and more representatives in the state executive council if they win the state polls.

Melaka voters will head to the polls on Nov 14, and BN has yet to confirm its alliance for the state election. PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang claims an agreement in principle has been reached.