Pas-Bersatu forge solid collaboration amidst speculations, experts say

SHAH ALAM - Pas and Bersatu have discovered a mutually beneficial formula in their collaboration, minimising the likelihood of either party jeopardising the partnership.

According to political analyst Political analyst Dr Abdul Aziz Azizam from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), the coalition between Pas and Bersatu has been a prominent topic of discussion since their alliance during the 15th General Election (GE15), and their cooperation remains intact.

"As we can see, the coalition between Pas and Bersatu is one of the hot topics being discussed since they came together during GE15 until now, but their cooperation continues.

"From observation, we can see that many statements regarding the Pas-Bersatu cooperation come from their opponents rather than from their side," Abdul Aziz told Sinar Daily.

He urged against basing judgments solely on external assumptions.

Political analyst Associate Professor Dr Syaza Shukri from International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) echoed Azizam's sentiment, affirming that the relationship between the two parties will continue in the foreseeable future.

She acknowledged Bersatu's unease with its position in relation to Pas but highlighted the indispensable support, machinery, and organisation Pas provides to Bersatu.

"Bersatu may not be too happy with its position vis-à-vis Pas, as can be seen from their reluctance to call it a "green wave" instead of Perikatan’s blue.

"However, we need to remember that Bersatu cannot survive without Pas’ supporters, machinery, and organisation," Syaza said.

She also pointed out that Pas was a pragmatic party, requiring Bersatu to lessen their fear of Islamists.

However, political analyst from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Datuk Prof Dr Jayum Anak Jawan expressed a contrasting view.

He noted that Pas enjoys solid support among its hardcore base, while Bersatu has yet to demonstrate similar backing, given that many of its members come from other political parties.

"The solidarity within Bersatu is yet to be tested, unlike Pas, which has been firm and established over decades of its struggle.

"Pas’s rising fortune, especially outside its traditional enclave of the East Coast states, is not solely due to Pas but its association with other political parties such as Bersatu," Jayum explained.

Meanwhile, Singapore Institute of International Affairs senior fellow Dr Oh Ei Sun shed light on the dynamics of the Pas-Bersatu collaboration.

He stressed that Pas contributes grassroots mobilisation, crucial for their joint election machinery, while Bersatu provides the necessary funding.

"However, if financing issues persist, Bersatu might risk losing Pas' vital support," he said.