A revitalized PN with PAS in the lead could be lethal
Malaysia’s opposition PN is fracturing after Muhyiddin’s resignation as chairman, sparking government celebration. Yet, this could revive the coalition with fresh, untainted leaders for a stronger GE16 challenge.
Malaysia's political landscape has shifted dramatically with a new power imbalance in the opposition. The once cohesive Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition appears to be fracturing, prompting jubilation among the ruling unity government factions, who see their primary rival weakening.
The mass resignation of key Bersatu leaders from PN's leadership positions—triggered by Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin's decision to step down as PN chairman effective January 1, 2026—has left the alliance between Bersatu and PAS teetering on the brink of collapse.
However, the government may be celebrating prematurely. Muhyiddin's resignation, along with those of other Bersatu figures from coalition roles, could prove beneficial in the long run.
It might pave the way for a revitalized and rejuvenated opposition force, potentially mounting a more formidable challenge to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's Pakatan Harapan-led administration.
Muhyiddin Yassin's reputation has been severely tarnished by multiple scandals, eroding party solidarity within Bersatu and diminishing his credibility across the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition. PAS has openly signalled its preference for fresh leadership to steer PN towards success in the upcoming general election.
Muhyiddin's Downfall
Still facing unresolved corruption charges—with his trial set to commence in March 2026—and overshadowed by the ongoing absence of his son-in-law, who remains wanted by authorities, Muhyiddin has lost momentum as a unifying figure capable of challenging Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's administration.
Isolated within the coalition, his timely resignation as PN chairman allows the opposition bloc to regroup, restructure, and emerge under new, unburdened leaders free from corruption allegations.
As the 16th general election (GE16) approaches, mounting pressure from ongoing scandals and his impending corruption trial—set to commence in March 2026—could compel Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to relinquish his position as Bersatu president.
This would clear the path for a leadership transition within the party, potentially favouring figures more aligned with or acceptable to PAS, thereby strengthening coalition harmony and appealing broader to the Malay electorate ahead of the polls.
Johan Chairil