PAS-Bersatu ties strong, says Hadi, as calls for Muafakat Nasional revival grow

KUALA LUMPUR: The relationship between PAS and Bersatu remains strong and could pave the way for the revival of Muafakat Nasional (MN) as a platform for Malay and Islamic political unification.

Sinar Harian reported that PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang said their good relations extend not only to Bersatu but also to Umno, in line with efforts to unite Malay Muslims and non-Muslims who are not extreme.

“The relationship with Bersatu and Umno is still good. Yes, god willing, we want to unite Malays, Muslims and non-Muslims who are not extreme,” Abdul Hadi said after delivering a lecture at Masjid Rusila on Friday (Jan 2).

He was responding to questions about the latest developments on Muafakat Nasional following proposals for Perikatan Nasional to be dissolved and Muafakat Nasional to be re-established, particularly in light of recent political changes in Perlis.

The proposal was earlier voiced by Umno Youth Chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who believes Perikatan should be dissolved and Muafakat Nasional revived. Dr Muhamad Akmal said the situation in Perlis showed the need to return to a clearer framework of political cooperation based on Malay and Islamic unity.

The suggestion was welcomed by PAS Information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari, who said Muafakat Nasional could be launched immediately once Umno and Barisan Nasional withdrew from the Unity Government.

However, the proposal has attracted various reactions, with some viewing it as a possible ‘subtle trap’ for the opposition bloc if not thoroughly refined. Jasin Muafakat Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Khairuddin Abu Hassan questioned whether the proposal was made sincerely for unity or to fulfill specific political interests.

He stressed that any effort to revive Muafakat Nasional must be based on honesty, sincerity and the current political reality, so as not to affect the stability of the opposition coalition.