Malaysia’s PAS wants unity, but on whose terms?

Sign up now: Get insights on the biggest stories in MalaysiaMalaysia’s opposition Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) leaders gather on stage with UMNO secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki (in red), at PAS’ annual party congress, or muktamar, in Pengkalan Chepa, near Kota Bharu, Kelantan, on Sept 4, as the rival Malay-based parties seek to strengthen their cooperation. ST PHOTO: HAZLIN HASSANPublished Sep 05, 2026, 08:20 PMUpdated Sep 05, 2026, 08:36 PMPAS and UMNO are edging towards further cooperation in the name of Malay unity, but neither appears willing to play second fiddle.Buoyed by significant electoral strength, the opposition Islamist party insists on defending all its seats and expanding its territory, showing little willingness to concede ground.Seat-allocation negotiations, especially in Melaka, remain delicate, with both sides cautious and analysts noting the need for cooperation despite the rivalry.KOTA BHARU - At the 72nd annual congress of Malaysia’s opposition Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, UMNO Youth chief Akmal Saleh attended the opening ceremony of the party’s Youth wing on Sept 3 as a guest.At the main party congress, or muktamar, the next day, UMNO secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki took his place on stage among the PAS leadership – and even waved the green PAS flag.See more on