The political alliance between Pas and Bersatu within Malaysia’s Perikatan Nasional (PN) is under growing strain due to shifting power dynamics and declining influence of Bersatu leader Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin [1].
Pas is increasingly seen as the stronger partner in PN. It holds more parliamentary seats, commands a stronger grassroots base, and exerts greater influence in key states [1]. Meanwhile, Bersatu is viewed as relying heavily on Pas for continued political relevance as Muhyiddin’s standing diminishes [1].
Rising distrust has emerged in both camps, with leaders questioning each other's strategic loyalty and the future direction of PN [1]. Internal pressure also mounts within Bersatu, where some members argue Pas should exit PN due to perceived organizational stagnation and ineffective leadership under PN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar [2].
These Bersatu members believe Pas would be better off going solo or forming Muafakat Nasional 2.0 alongside UMNO to protect their political interests and avoid harming PN’s prospects [2]. At the same time, Pas’s Majlis Syura Ulama has voiced serious reservations about leadership conflicts within Bersatu, citing concerns over PN’s stability and credibility [2].
Discussions about Pas distancing itself from Bersatu and establishing Muafakat Nasional 2.0 without Bersatu have been ongoing since 2025 [2]. Over the past year, Pas leaders have publicly criticized Bersatu’s role and commitment, further deepening the rift [2].
Frustration within Bersatu grew markedly after Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar’s appointment as PN chairman, with calls intensifying for Pas to leave the coalition [2]. While some sources describe PN’s leadership under Dr Samsuri as ineffective and slow to act [2], others focus on the broader power shift and strategic doubts without labeling PN as dysfunctional [1].
The political realignments and internal debates continue as both parties reassess their positions ahead of upcoming electoral cycles, with no clear resolution yet on the future composition of Perikatan Nasional.
