At Bersatu AGM, delegates reaffirm Muhyiddin’s role as Perikatan’s PM candidate for GE16

SHAH ALAM, Nov 30 — At its seventh annual general meeting (AGM) today, Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia delegates voiced their support for party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin as the prime ministerial candidate for Opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional (PN) in the next general election.

Bersatu members emphasised the coalition’s foundation under their party’s leadership, asserting that Muhyiddin is the backbone of PN.

“Each party has its own stance. PAS’ position is based on their majority of seats in the Dewan Rakyat, and we acknowledge that,” said Khairul Haniza Ibrahim, 53, deputy division chief of Kuala Pilah Bersatu.

“However, from Bersatu’s perspective, we must not forget that Perikatan Nasional was founded by our president. The goal of Perikatan Nasional is to take over the government and return to Putrajaya.”

Khairul Haniza Datuk Ibrahim speaks to Malay Mail during the Bersatu annual general meeting at Ideal Convention Centre (IDCC) Shah Alam November 30, 2024. — Picture By Firdaus Latif

Khairul Haniza also told Malay Mail that this year’s assembly provides a platform for Bersatu members to express their opinions on who is best suited to be proposed as prime minister.

Kota Siputih assemblyman Mohd Ashraf Mustaqim Badrul Munir, 38, highlighted Muhyiddin’s significant contributions to the country.

“Of course, Muhyiddin is the poster boy for PN. As the PN leader and its chairman, that’s who he is,” he said.

“Based on public reception and data — including findings from think tanks and data centres — we know that Muhyiddin’s standing remains strong.

“His contributions, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, are still remembered by the people. They recognise his service and see him as a leading candidate for the premiership.”

Mohd Ashraf Mustaqim Badrul Munir speaks to Malay Mail during the Bersatu annual general meeting at Ideal Convention Centre (IDCC) Shah Alam November 30, 2024. — Picture By Firdaus Latif

However, Mohd Ashraf acknowledged that Muhyiddin had recently said that his leadership is not sacrosanct.

“We respect our coalition partners, including PAS, Gerakan, and others in the PN coalition. This matter is open for discussion. Moreover, Muhyiddin is not an authoritarian figure who insists everything must go through him,” he added.

“PN operates as an inclusive body, valuing the input of its members. This inclusivity reflects Muhyiddin’s open-mindedness.

“As Bersatu members, we naturally believe that Muhyiddin is the right figure to lead PN. He is the ideal candidate to lead and represent the coalition, alongside Tuan Guru Haji Hadi (PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang) and other leaders from Gerakan.”

Abdullah Khayan speaks to Malay Mail during the Bersatu annual general meeting at Ideal Convention Centre (IDCC) Shah Alam November 30, 2024. — Picture By Firdaus Latif

For Abdullah Khayan, 58, from the Labis division in Johor, the party grassroots expressed a preference for Bersatu deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin as the party’s ‘poster boy’ instead.

“If we were to give the position to Datuk Seri Hamzah, people might appreciate it more, instead of having the same person repeatedly becoming prime minister, which could lead to public resentment. Many members have voiced this opinion,” he said.

“However, as long as Bersatu maintains its position as the party nominating the prime ministerial candidate, that’s acceptable.”

Abdullah also stressed that Bersatu must nominate a candidate the public supports.

“If PAS wants to propose someone, that’s fine — as long as they present a credible candidate. Let them present their candidate first so we can compare and determine who is the better choice,” he said.

“Bersatu must nominate a candidate who resonates with the people. We are a party that listens to the people and seeks to win their hearts. Tan Sri Muhyiddin has led before and gave his best during the Covid-19 pandemic.”