In a significant shift for Malaysian politics, Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar has been appointed as the new chairman of the opposition coalition, Perikatan Nasional (PN). His ascension positions the vice-president of Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) as the likely candidate to challenge Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in the upcoming general elections. In his first public addresses since taking office, Ahmad Samsuri has made it clear that engaging with ethnic minority communities is essential for the coalition’s future success.
A Shift Towards Unity
During a recent appearance on the podcast Lebih Masa, Ahmad Samsuri emphasised the need for a leadership approach that transcends singular vision, urging for collaboration among diverse voices within the party. While he refrained from outright ambition for the prime ministerial role, he did express that all leadership talents should be utilised when forming the next government.
Engagement with Ethnic Minorities
- Ahmad Samsuri’s strategy includes reaching out to non-Malay voters.
- He noted PAS’s historical win in Sabah, marking a shift in traditional party support dynamics.
- Expressed need for PAS to play a prominent role given its parliamentary presence, surpassing the Democratic Action Party (DAP).
In recent years, PAS has positioned itself as a dominant political force, currently holding 43 seats compared to DAP’s 40. This pivot aims to secure a broader support base as the coalition prepares for elections that must take place by February 2028.
Challenges Ahead
However, Ahmad Samsuri faces an uphill battle. Analysts suggest that the perception of PAS as a conservative force, particularly among ethnic minority communities, could hinder outreach efforts. Issues such as gender roles and the party’s advocacy for Islamic law have alienated potential allies.
Political experts, including Azmi Hassan from the Nusantara Academy, highlighted the importance of distinguishing himself from PAS’s clerical leadership to attract non-Malay support. For Ahmad, navigating these internal dynamics while projecting a more inclusive image will be crucial.
Coalition Dynamics
Ahmad Samsuri’s leadership comes at a tumultuous time for PN’s major partner, Bersatu, which recently experienced significant internal conflict. The departure of key leaders indicates the fragility within the coalition, and his ability to unify the parties will be tested.
Amid this backdrop, the future trajectory of Ahmad Samsuri as a leader will likely determine how effectively PN can challenge Anwar Ibrahim’s government and respond to shifting voter demographics in Malaysia.