Leadership exodus in Perikatan Nasional as Muhyiddin's resignation triggers string of exits

SHAH ALAM – A ripple effect of resignations has hit the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition following Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s announcement that he will step down as PN chairman, effective Jan 1, 2026, a move many political observers say stems from the prolonged political crisis in Perlis.

Muhyiddin, the coalition’s long-time leader and former prime minister said his resignation will take effect from the start of the new year.

Shortly after, several key PN figures also relinquished leadership posts, highlighting deepening uncertainty within the bloc’s ranks.

Azmin resigns as PN secretary-general

Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, who serves as PN secretary-general, confirmed that he will also step down from his post effective Jan 1, 2026. His decision came in the wake of Muhyiddin’s announcement, signalling a broader leadership reshuffle within the coalition.

Johor PN chairman follows suit

In Johor, Dr Sahruddin Jamal, the state’s PN chairman said he will resign from his position citing that he was appointed by Muhyiddin and chose to step down following the latter’s decision to relinquish the national role.

Ahmad Faizal Azumu exits as PN Perak chairman

Former Perak menteri besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu announced his resignation as the state PN chairman, also effective Jan 1, 2026. He said his decision was made out of respect for the prerogative of the PN chairman in party leadership appointments.

Hanifah resigns as PN Negeri Sembilan chairman

Similarly, Mohamad Hanifah Abu Baker, who heads PN in Negeri Sembilan, tendered his resignation, aligning his decision with Muhyiddin’s move and the evolving leadership situation within the coalition.

The domino effect of departures follows a volatile period in Perlis, where internal conflict saw a trio of Pas assemblymen sacked and the state’s Menteri Besar resigned amid shifting allegiances.

Eight PN assemblymen, five from Bersatu and three from Pas, withdrew support for the Menteri Besar, triggering a constitutional and political impasse that drew nationwide attention.

Political analysts have linked Muhyiddin’s resignation and the leadership exits to the Perlis fallout, suggesting it exposed underlying fractures between PN component parties, particularly between Pas and Bersatu.

A number of Pas leaders have since signalled dissatisfaction with the coalition’s direction and discussions about future alliances, including potential cooperation with Umno, have intensified.

The departures marked a significant turning point for PN as it braces for elections and navigates leadership transitions amid growing public scrutiny and political realignments following the Perlis crisis.