SHAH ALAM – Tensions within Perikatan Nasional (PN) in Perlis come into focus after Pas information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari posts a cryptic message suggesting political allies have turned against one another.
The Pasir Mas member of parliament had written 'kawan makan kawan' (betrayed by a friend) in a Facebook post on Sunday without further explanation.
The post drew widespread speculation and reactions from his followers, with some social media users linking it to the ongoing political turmoil in Perlis and urging a reassessment of political alliances in the state.
Following the post, Perlis Perikatan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim was believed to have referred to the same situation when he proposed Muafakat Nasional as a solution.
Shahidan, who is also Perlis Pas deputy commissioner III, said political actors should seek ways to remain allies and avoid conflict.
“Find ways to stay friends and avoid the cause of disputes. The solution is Muafakat Nasional,” he said in a brief Facebook post.
Separately, Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh hinted that Umno was open to renewing cooperation with Pas amid the Perlis political crisis.
He said both parties could work towards changing their relationship from adversaries back into allies.
The crisis emerged after a Bersatu Kuala Perlis assemblyman Abu Bakar Hamzah was sworn in as Perlis Menteri Besar, triggering internal tensions within the ruling coalition. He replaced predecessor Mohd Shukri Ramli, who resigned on Thursday due to health reasons.
Abu Bakar is Bersatu Perlis chairman and Perikatan Nasional Perlis deputy chairman I.
He also previously served as a state executive councillor overseeing tourism, arts and culture, as well as rural development.