PETALING JAYA: The appointment of a Bersatu leader as Perlis Mentri Besar may help rebalance power within Perikatan Nasional but risks fuelling dissatisfaction among PAS grassroots, say analysts. Abu Bakar Hamzah, the Kuala Perlis assemblyman and Perlis Bersatu chief, was sworn in at Istana Arau yesterday after receiving the consent of the Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail. His appointment marked the first time Bersatu is taking the helm of the state following the resignation of PAS’ Mohd Shukri Ramli on Thursday, citing health reasons. Prof Sivamurugan added that unresolved tensions between PAS and Bersatu could continue to erode unity, especially at the grassroots and state levels. “This shows PAS and Bersatu are slowly moving in different directions,” he said, adding that the Perlis crisis reflected miscalculations by PAS and shrewd political manoeuvring by Bersatu.

Source: The Star December 29, 2025 12:47 UTC