PM-material among PAS leaders, but ‘not time yet’ to name one

PAS deputy secretary-general Syahir Sulaiman revealed that the political party possesses individuals capable of becoming Malaysia's Prime Minister, should they be given the opportunity. Speaking to FMT, Syahir stated that PAS has potential candidates at both the parliamentary and state levels, including members of its central committee who are in their 40s to 60s.

Syahir, who represents the Bachok constituency, added that President Abdul Hadi Awang might already have someone in mind for the prime ministerial role. However, Syahir clarified that the party has not yet named its candidate simply because it has not reached the right moment. He also emphasized that when the time is right, Malaysia will benefit from having a better prime minister.

Syahir's comments came in response to an FMT report, quoting analyst Syaza Shukri, who suggested that PAS' hesitance to name a candidate might raise questions about the party's confidence in choosing a leader capable of garnering public trust. Shukri pointed out that Samsuri, who is also a PAS vice-president and Perikatan Nasional chairman, could be a strong contender for the position.

Syahir defended the party's decision to appoint four chief ministers from among its members - Samsuri in Terengganu, Sanusi Nor in Kedah, Nassuruddin Daud in Kelantan, and Shukri Ramli in Perlis - stating that these appointments were based on qualifications and abilities, not out of pressure to appoint someone who demanded the position.