Political observers warn Bersatu’s internal feud may not last, but could spark major realignments among Malay parties ahead of the next general election.
PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin’s declaration that he is the party president’s “number one enemy” may have pushed Bersatu closer to a rupture, but analysts say that political feuds in Malaysia rarely last and could instead spark a broader realignment of Malay politics.
“In the short run, it indeed signals a split between Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Hamzah. But Malaysian politics is notoriously short-sighted – just look at how Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Muhyiddin reconciled politically,” said Pacific Research Centre of Malaysia principal adviser Dr Oh Ei Sun.
Oh observed that as Bersatu edges towards political oblivion, PAS could seize the moment to consolidate its dominance within the Malay opposition bloc.
“All gloves are now off for PAS. It can consolidate Malay support under its banner and no longer share it with Bersatu,” he said, cautioning that this could prove fatal to Pakatan Harapan’s fragile standing among Malay voters, the country’s largest voting bloc. He added that the unfolding drama could also open the door to behind-the-scenes negotiations and unexpected alliances.
“Some form of political Zumba is likely before and after the next general election,” Oh said, alluding to MPs repositioning themselves across party lines ahead of the next general election.”
Political Zumba refers to the intersection of dance fitness with political campaigning, community building or cultural controversy.
Hamzah and several aligned MPs were sacked last Friday. The following day, he delivered a fiery press conference, vowing to find a “new house” – whether in an old party or a new one. Speculation is mounting that Hamzah may be eyeing a return to Umno. An English daily reported that he has been considering a comeback for some time and has held discussions with Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
A source said the two met last year, adding that while Malaysia’s anti-hopping law would prevent a direct party switch, a realignment ahead of the next general election remains possible. The potential move also aligns with the “Rumah Bangsa” concept Zahid outlined at Umno’s last general assembly.
Nusantara Academy of Strategic Research senior fellow Prof Dr Azmi Hassan said the contest for the role would be a significant development.
“We know that Hamzah is supported by PAS. However, PAS does not have the leadership capability at this point to take on the role of opposition leader. As we have seen in the context of the Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairmanship, it will be interesting to see whether PAS continues to support Hamzah in remaining as opposition leader. The position of the other two parties in PN – MIPP (Malaysian Indian People’s Party) and Gerakan – will also be crucial in determining the outcome.”
Azmi said PN needs a strong figure, adding that Hamzah remains the most viable candidate.
“I believe the opposition needs a strong figure. It needs leadership of the kind that Hamzah can provide to serve effectively as the opposition.”
Bersatu secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali said the party has yet to decide on a new candidate to replace Hamzah. PN deputy secretary-general and PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said the position of PN chairman will be determined at the coalition’s supreme council meeting scheduled for this Sunday. He said the meeting would focus on approving Muhyiddin’s resignation as PN chairman and appointing a new chairman to lead the coalition. He added that the appointment of an Opposition leader would likely be addressed at a separate meeting.
The Sun Malaysia
