'Cooperation with PAS won’t affect component parties'

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 13, 2026

Umno’s Youth wing affirmed that its alliance with PAS has not harmed the interests of Barisan Nasional’s other component parties, citing recent election successes in Negri Sembilan where Umno and MCA both secured seats. The party also emphasized cautious future partner selection to avoid risks, while plans for direct talks with PAS ahead of the next general election are underway, excluding Perikatan Nasional from discussions.

KUALA LUMPUR — Umno’s collaboration with PAS does not threaten the interests of Barisan Nasional’s (BN) component parties, according to a party Youth delegate speaking at the recent Umno general assembly.

Mohamad Fadil Md Zain, Negri Sembilan Umno Youth chief, pointed to the outcome of the recent Negri Sembilan state election as evidence that cooperation with PAS has not come at the expense of BN’s other partners. Umno secured a clean sweep, winning all 16 seats it contested, while MCA, which had previously failed to win any seats in the state, captured two. One notable victory included wresting a seat formerly held by the DAP secretary-general.

“Today in Negri Sembilan, Umno has chosen PAS as one of its friends. To PAS, we remind and ask that you do not rock the boat with us again,” Mohamad Fadil said in his motion on behalf of the Youth wing. He addressed Barisan’s component parties, notably MCA and MIC, urging them not to fear the partnership with PAS.

However, Mohamad Fadil emphasized the need for Umno to exercise caution when selecting future partners, warning that poor choices could prove detrimental. “If Umno chooses the wrong partner, we will be the ones who get ‘eaten’,” he stated.

In a separate development, Kedah Umno delegate Datuk Shaiful Hazizy Zainol Abidin announced plans to initiate talks directly with PAS on potential cooperation ahead of the next general election. He clarified that these discussions would exclude Perikatan Nasional as a coalition, citing reservations about engaging the group due to the presence of what he referred to as the “cat party.”

The “cat party” reference traced back to Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor’s earlier remarks at the PAS muktamar, where he used the analogy to suggest that smaller parties need not feel overshadowed or insecure when negotiating for electoral seats. Sanusi did not specify which party he was referring to.

Separately, Wanita Umno has intensified calls for greater inclusion of women in political roles. Batu Pahat Wanita division chief Haliza Abdullah urged that women be afforded equal opportunities as candidates and in leadership positions. “We are the backbone, pillars and roots of the party’s strength. Meaningful recognition is not just about words, but about translating those words into space, opportunities and trust,” she said, underscoring the need to move beyond symbolic gestures towards tangible empowerment.

The statements reflect ongoing efforts within Umno and BN to navigate the evolving political landscape in Malaysia, balancing intra-coalition dynamics and strategic partnerships ahead of future elections.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.