Tough for PN to find PM candidate on par with Anwar, says PAS man

PAS leader Ahmad Fadhli Shaari has acknowledged the difficulty Perikatan Nasional (PN) is experiencing in finding a prime ministerial candidate comparable to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim ahead of the 16th Malaysian general election. Fadhli stated that PN must provide a viable alternative to Anwar, who serves as the face of Pakatan Harapan.

In a recent episode of the Keluar Sekejap podcast, Fadhli emphasized that Anwar possesses an edge over PN candidates, particularly in terms of image and appeal, especially among younger voters. He cited Anwar's attendance at the recent Malaysian MotoGP championship, where he mingled with a group of young enthusiasts on a grassy field, as a savvy publicity move.

However, Fadhli cautioned that Anwar's advantage does not automatically guarantee voter support. He stressed that voters are also keen on assessing the country's economic performance and its direct impact on their lives. Fadhli further noted that Anwar's international relations skills, communication abilities, and leadership image serve as a strong point for him, which BN and PN leaders struggle to emulate.

Additionally, he highlighted the positive economic developments under Anwar's administration, including an upgraded 2026 real GDP growth projection to 4.8%-5.3% by the finance ministry, and a surge in foreign direct investments to RM1,114.9 billion in the second quarter of 2026.